Following any type of catastrophic injury, there are steps that individuals should take before returning to work for a safe transition. In some cases, injury victims may need to take off more time, follow a treatment plan, and listen to their doctor’s recommendations.
Here are some of the steps that injured workers should take before going back to work following an accident and injuries.
Following the Prescribed Treatment Plan
Prior to returning to work, injury victims are likely going to need to follow a unique treatment plan depending on the extent of the injuries sustained. It’s important for them to follow the treatment plan in accordance with the doctor’s and therapists’ directions, including taking any prescribed medication as directed and following up with doctor’s appointments.
Failure to adhere to a treatment plan could lead to future symptoms and complications, which may lead to a revised treatment plan. The failure to stick to a treatment plan could also have certain repercussions such as difficulty recovering compensation from insurers or prolonging the length of time it takes to recover before returning to work.
Obtaining a Doctor’s Note Permitting a Return to Work
To return to work, it’s important for victims to have a doctor’s note, which provides proof of injuries to an employer. A doctor’s note helps show the precise reason for an employee’s absence, and it can help the employer gauge the employee’s physical abilities and how they may affect his or her workload and tasks.
The doctor’s note should include any test results, x-rays, medical records, treatment plans, and other relevant documentation. All of this documentation will help prove that an employee was injured and detail why they required time off from work to recover.
Keeping Track of Complications and Symptoms Experienced
Immediately after any kind of accident, individuals should document the symptoms they’re experiencing, if possible. These details can not only help doctors determine the best personal treatment plan, but they can also help further prove the extent of the injuries to support an injury claim.
During the recovery process, it can help to continue documenting the condition and any symptoms or complications experienced at any point. Communicating these to a doctor or therapist could help them modify treatment and recovery plans accordingly.
Understanding the Benefits Available
After sustaining life-changing injuries, some individuals may qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or long-term disability (LTD) benefits. This is particularly helpful if a worker is severely limited or entirely unable to work following a serious injury.
Finding Out How to Handle Future Injuries or an Inability to Return to Work
Some individuals who sufficiently recover may return to work when they’re ready, but even in these cases, it’s still possible to experience a future injury or complications with an existing condition. In the event of re-injury, it’s necessary for employees to notify an employer and speak with a doctor as soon as possible.
If an employee is unable to continue working in the same position due to an injury, it may be necessary to consider a different position or make a career change.
Taking these steps can help individuals prepare to return to work following a catastrophic injury.