Depending on the circumstances of a work-related injury in North Carolina, it could take days or years for injured workers to return to their jobs. A return to work or RTW program is an extension of workers’ compensation benefits and can bring injury support full-circle.
An RTW program can incentivize injured workers to return to work as quickly as possible and provide them with the resources they need to work safely and comfortably.
Increase morale and decrease hardship
Work-related injuries impact the lives of many people every day. In fact, according to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, 4.1 million workers suffer injuries or illnesses related to their job every year. While workers’ compensation programs aim to reduce the impact of temporary disabilities for injured employees, a setback as significant as an unexpected injury can still cause difficulty and hardship.
RTW programs provide considerable support to workers who desire to return to their jobs. Utilizing available resources, employers and injured workers can collaborate to identify solutions to make the transition back to the workplace a sustainable and beneficial option. Workers who get back to their jobs quickly may have increased morale and feel an incentive to continue their recovery. Resuming their responsibilities can also decrease financial hardship as a steady income returns.
Retain reliable talent
Workers’ compensation benefits claims and subsequent payouts can cost companies a lot of money. According to Protective Insurance, organizations that implement an RTW program could cut their claims costs by 50 percent or more, as well as decrease the chances of fraudulent benefits claims.
Another organizational benefit of an RTW program is the cost savings on recruiting, hiring and training new talent. Through providing ongoing support to injured workers and aiding in their return to the workplace, companies can retain reliable employees who have already proved their job competency and loyalty to the company.
