According to a new study, early intervention is instrumental in significantly reducing injury costs and the time that employees spend away from work.
If an employee misses a mere 20 days due to illness or injury, that worker only has a 70% chance of ever returning to work.
After conducting an extensive study lasting two years, a major urban hospital discovered that early intervention drastically reduced the costs associated with workplace injuries.
In particular, the program slashed cumulative costs by 56%, lowered the number of compensation claims by 43% and decreased the number of absentee days from 1,600 to 200.
There are several proven strategies that employers can implement if they wish to similar results, such as:
While these initiatives can be costly, the return on investment is substantial. The hospital spent $22,500 in two years, but prevented over $500,000 in claims during the same time period.
“By saving a million dollars a year, we have been able to invest in the core function of the business,” hospital CEO Martin Day said.
“The result of the program has been quite profound.”
This article was adapted from Getting back to work faster. To read more click here.
After conducting an extensive study lasting two years, a major urban hospital discovered that early intervention drastically reduced the costs associated with workplace injuries.
In particular, the program slashed cumulative costs by 56%, lowered the number of compensation claims by 43% and decreased the number of absentee days from 1,600 to 200.
There are several proven strategies that employers can implement if they wish to similar results, such as:
- Establishing an arrangement that allows employees to return to an organisation incrementally, adding additional tasks as allowed by the worker’s medical treatment plan
- Removing any risks that could lead to harm, and urging employees to report injuries early
- Developing any work site accommodations needed upon the employee’s return
- Fostering a relationship with injured workers, to ensure they maintain a desire to come back to the workplace
- Creating an understanding that rehabilitation is an organisational priority, and will be pursued regardless of the claims process outcome
While these initiatives can be costly, the return on investment is substantial. The hospital spent $22,500 in two years, but prevented over $500,000 in claims during the same time period.
“By saving a million dollars a year, we have been able to invest in the core function of the business,” hospital CEO Martin Day said.
“The result of the program has been quite profound.”
This article was adapted from Getting back to work faster. To read more click here.
