There is ample evidence in the literature that the sooner patients return, the better the overall outcome. In fact, one of the factors that adds to the disability role is the lack of a job to return to. For patients with back pain, those out of work for six months have only a 50 percent chance of ever returning to work. A second RTW policy leaves the entire decision in the hands of the clinician. The company states that RTW may only take place when the doctor provides a complete release and return to regular duties.
Light duty is nonexistent.
The injured worker may return on an all or nothing basis. While the rationale for such a policy is easily understood, once again the outcome is often less than desirable. It is mandated that each employer provide reasonable accommodation to enable individuals to accomplish the essential functions of the job. This may include assistive devices, job rotation, job modification, etc. Contrary to popular practice, every effort should be made to allow injured workers to return to work as quickly and safely as possible.