Role of health-care providers in the workers’ compensation system and return-to-work process
Reasons for the study
International research has generated strong evidence that health-care providers play an important role in the return-to-work (RTW) process. This research also suggests that health-care providers sometimes struggle with facilitating the return to work of their patients. Pressure on consultation time, administrative challenges and limited knowledge about a patient’s workplace can thwart active engagement. This two-year study focuses on the experiences of health-care providers within the workers’ compensation system and how their role in the RTW process can be enhanced.
Objectives of the study
- To identify programs, guidelines, forms and policies developed by workers’ compensation boards designed to facilitate the engagement of health-care providers in the RTW process
- To understand the perceived role of health-care providers in the RTW process, including the challenges they face related to interacting with workers’ compensation boards, injured workers, employers and other health-care providers
- To find practical ways of facilitating the meaningful engagement of health-care providers in RTW
Anticipated results/impact
The results of this study will be relevant to health-care providers, disability prevention policy-makers, case managers and RTW coordinators. The findings will help identify policies and practices that facilitate health-care provider involvement in RTW.
Related scientific publications
Related interviews and articles
Related presentations
Project status
Completed 2017
Research team
Participating organizations
Office of the Employer Adviser (Ontario)
St. Boniface Hospital (Winnipeg, Manitoba)
Workers Compensation Board of Manitoba
WorkSafeBC
Funded by
Workers Compensation Board of Manitoba