Pre-Post Evaluation of an Integrated Return to Work Planning Program in Workers' Compensation Assessment Clinics.

Abstract

The aim of this study was to assess the impact of a new workers' compensation medical assessment model on loss of earnings (LOE) benefits duration. A medical assessment model was introduced incorporating return to work planning and inclusion of the worker's treating physician. Impact of the program on LOE benefit duration was assessed using a quasi-experimental pre-post study design. Cox PH multivariable regression was adjusted for age, gender, injury severity, time to referral, and industry. The study population comprised 3146 workers: 1794 assessed pre-intervention and 1574 assessed after introduction of the new model. There was a significant reduction in LOE benefit duration for workers assessed in the new model (hazard ratio 1.33, 95% confidence interval 1.23-1.43). The probability of being off LOE benefits for workers assessed in the new program was 33% greater than for workers assessed in the prior program.