Knowledge Base

What strategies can help work with employees who do not want to return to work in a timely manner?

The following resource may be helpful: Recovery & work – WorkSafeBC.

Ensure workers are well educated in what recovery at work and return to work looks like so there is less of a learning curve when they are actually injured and trying to navigate the system. If they buy in and understand what to do, it should help communication from all parties with WorkSafeBC and improve their chances of following the program as you have outlined it.

Second, positive safety culture at the workplace as supported through a psychologically safe work environment will help. Show care and concern to the worker to let them know they are valued and that you are trying to help aid their recovery and protect their wages by offering them modified work duties. The supervisor is a great tool to help maintain the connection with the worker.

Third, a WorkSafeBC Claims nurse line deals with all sorts of questions from employers. They may be able to answer or provide some guidance to you. You can also reach the Claims Nurse Line by phone: 604.279.8155 (Lower Mainland) or toll-free: 1.877.633.6233. Hours of operation: Monday to Friday (excluding holidays), 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. This is an employer support line that is managed by a registered nurse team of experts in occupational injury and return to work programs. The nurses provide a clinical perspective that is separate from claims entitlement and prevention issues and focuses on early intervention and offers of modified work.

The employer’s advisors office may be able to better support a review of your practices and offer workable solutions.

And third-party support is available from companies such as MSABC Associate Member TeksMed.

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