Three ways to help an injured worker recover faster
Getting injured at work can be a traumatic experience. Apart from the ordeal of the injury itself, having to take time off work to recover – often while on light duties or leave – can make someone feel they have lost control of their life. Which is why it is vital to establish connection and trust with an injured employee as soon as they are injured.
Why trust is important in workers compensation claims
Everyone wants an injured employee to get back on their feet, and back to work, as quickly as they can. But the US-based Employee Benefit News, a media resource for business leaders, notes a speedy recovery can be delayed by an employee who has no trust in the workers compensation claims process.
In a recent article, EBN cited a Workers Compensation Research Institute study showing injured workers who fear losing their jobs, or who feel cut off from their normal work roles, end up feeling helpless – and this can prolong their recovery by about four weeks.
And injured workers who feel cut off can end up resenting their employers. Which is a lose-lose situation for everyone. EBN described three effective ways to help an injured worker feel more engaged in their own recovery and return-to-work process:
Power to the (injured) people – now
There is a lot of paperwork when an employee is injured, but don’t forget that employee is a person.
Employers can establish a personal connection at the time of injury by connecting the worker with a triage nurse to assess their injury and determine the right level of care. For more serious injuries, a case manager can be a worker’s best friend guiding them through the complex healthcare system and worker’s compensation process. They can help an injured worker set goals and take control of their recovery.
Put the power in the worker’s hands – literally
Did you know there is an app for that – or there can be? EBN says some companies have developed apps that allow for a more self-directed approach to a worker’s recovery including at-home exercise plans and positive reinforcement. Workers are actively involved rather than just sitting at home waiting for their next appointment.
Mind matters
Injury – and especially pain – can leave someone feeling depressed and anxious. Add in a feeling of isolation, not to mention worrying about whether they will fully recover and be able to provide for their family, and an injured worker can end up feeling scared and alone. Case managers can keep an overview of their mental wellbeing, along with their physical recovery. And it will also help the worker feel their employer cares about them and supports their recovery – which is a win-win for everyone.
How Rehab Management can support employers and employees through workers compensation claims
Rehab Management provides high-quality, evidence-based, and outcome-driven return to work services that take a whole-person approach including biopsychosocial factors and using best-in-class digital tools. One of our experienced rehabilitation consultants will assist an injured worker and their extended support team to create a plan and set goals to achieve a positive rehabilitation outcome, as we oversee a safe and sustainable return to work with their current or a new employer.
