Attributes of Successful RTW Programs

Some have it, others don't, but everyone wants it.  No, I'm not talking about the latest gadget from Apple.  I'm talking about a successful RTW program. Many of the criteria that make a RTW program effective are what also make any other company initiative successful.

Awareness
If employees don't know about their company's RTW program, it will make implementation much more difficult when an injury occurs.  Conversely, if I am an employee of a company that has a well advertised RTW program, I know that if I sustain a work-related injury, my employer is going to work with me to bring me back to work. This serves two very important purposes.  It sends the message that being injured on the job does not = staying home.  It also sends reassurance that my job is more secure.

Support from the Top
If the head of the company does not take RTW seriously, neither will senior management.  If senior management doesn’t make it a priority, neither will middle management. This trickle-down effect can have the same impact if the CEO and management teams take RTW very seriously.  The culture of the company is dictated by the C-suite.  RTW programs should be viewed not as something we have to do, but something that the company believes is the right thing to do.

Accountability
A RTW program requires clearly defined roles and individuals to be held accountable.  Who is doing what is important in making sure that each task gets done and that nothing “falls between the cracks.”  This goes for injured workers, supervisors, HR and claim representatives.  If you don’t know your role and its importance, ask.

Preparedness
Unless you can predict the future, you will never know when a work injury will occur.  Having a list of modified duty tasks for each department will enable you to transition injured employees back to work faster.  If you are in a state the does not permit “make-work,” identify other jobs that exist in your company that are less physically demanding.  If you wait until a work injury happens to try and come up with modified duty, it can take weeks.  In the meantime, the injured worker is at home not receiving the physical benefits of RTW, while they could be at work doing some type of productive activity.  Save time, money and production by being prepared.

If you are just starting a RTW program, or looking to improve your current program, and would like further assistance or information, feel free to contact your Eastern Claim Representative, Risk Management Consultant, or Return to Work Specialist.  You can also visit Eastern Alliance Insurance Groups' website for additional resources and information.