What's a return to work program?
In Australia, ‘Return to Work Programs’ refer to a supportive, structured process designed to help workers return to the work safely and effectively following injury or illness.
Return to work programs are essential under workers’ compensation law for work-related injuries and illness, but their use in non-work related situations, for example, if a worker is resuming work following cancer treatment, can be extremely beneficial.
The primary goal of return to work program is to support and facilitate the worker back to their pre-existing role whilst also ensuring their health, safety and wellbeing is protected. Key elements of a return to work program include:
Early Reporting and Communication
Work-related injuries or illnesses should be reported as soon as practically possible so employees can receive the medical treatment they need, and so that the hazard or situation that caused the injury or illness can be promptly addressed. Early and effective communication is essential between the worker, their return to work coordinator, the employer, and any required medical professionals, to start the return to work process and ensure a successful return to work outcome is achieved.
Medical Assessment and Treatment
Injured or ill employees should receive appropriate medical attention, as soon as practicably possible following their injury or illness, which includes a thorough assessment of their condition and commencement of any necessary treatment. This may involve consultations with treating medical practitioners, specialists, allied health services and / or other rehabilitation providers as required.
Case Management
A dedicated Return to Work Coordinator may be assigned to oversee an injured workers return to work, providing critical case management services and liaising between the injured worker, their medical providers, the employer and the insurer, to facilitate a fast and successful return to work outcome.
Provision of Suitable Duties
Employers should work with the injured worker and their medical professionals, through their appointed return to work coordinator (where applicable), to identify suitable duties that align with any prescribed medical restrictions. Suitable duties may include alternative duties and normal hours, or a graduated plan that slowly increases the employees work hours over time. The goal of every suitable duties plan and return to work program is to return the injured worker to their pre-existing hours and duties as soon as practicably possible.
Rehabilitation Services and / or Workplace Modifications (as required):
Depending on the nature of the workers injury or illness, rehabilitation services including ergonomic assessments, physiotherapy, psychological support or vocational training may be required. Employers may need to make temporary or permanent workplace modifications, such as the installation of grab rails, or hire of a sit / stand desk, to accommodate the injured employee's needs, and ensure ongoing health and safety for all.
Compliance with Workers Compensation Requirements
Employers and injured workers must comply with any workers compensation requirements where the injury or illness is work related. This may include assessments, investigations, case management by insurers, and appointment of external rehabilitation assistance as required.
Every component of a return to work program is designed to ensure the injured or ill worker resumes their pre-existing role quickly and safely.
A well-structured, effective and inclusive return to work program, not only ensures employers meet their own legislative obligations* but also ensures a productive workplace and - most importantly, demonstrates an ongoing commitment to the health, safety and wellbeing of their employees.
