Why Modified Duty Programs Are a Win-Win
As a business owner or HR manager, you know how challenging it can be when an employee gets injured on the job. Not only are you concerned about the health of your employee, but you’re likely thinking of the financial strains on your business as well. Workplace injuries typically lead to increased insurance premiums, and when an injury at work means your employee will have an extended absense, it can also lead to lost productivity.
Modified duty programs create a way to keep your employees engaged while they’re recovering from an injury, as well as help reduce the financial impact of workers’ compensation claims. These light or modified duty programs allow employees to return to work in a limited capacity by performing tasks that accommodate their needs while they recover. This is beneficial for employers as it reduces the time their employees spend away from work, shortens claim durations, and leads to workers’ comp savings. It also benefits employees by supporting faster healing, helping keep them connected to the team, and reinforcing a positive return-to-work mindset.
OCMI Workers Comp specializes in helping businesses implement efficient return-to-work programs that benefit everyone. Let’s take a look at the link between return-to-work and workers’ compensation costs, how modified duty work supports recovery and retention, and how OCMI Workers Comp helps implement effective light duty programs.
The Link Between Return-to-Work and Workers’ Comp Costs
When an employee gets injured on the job, they need time to heal and recover. The longer an employee stays out of work, however, the more expensive the workers’ compensation claim becomes. Medical expenses, rehabilation costs, potential legal costs, and lost wages during recovery add up quickly. Additionally, the more time an employee has away from work, the less likely they are to return.
Modified duty programs are intended to help keep employees engaged while they’re still recovering from injury. These programs shorten claim durations, allow for regular communication between you as a business owner and your employee, prevent feelings of isolation, and can even lower medical costs.
How Modified Duty Supports Recovery and Retention
After an injury, your employee may be worried about not being able to get back to work or concerned about how they’ll support themselves and their family. As an employer, offering modified duty or transitional programs shows your workers that you value them and will make accommodations that can benefit everyone.
Transitional roles are designed to help ease employees back into the workforce after an injury. These roles may include things like administrative tasks, inventory checks, mentoring and training, or customer service. Getting employees involved as soon as they’re physically able is crucial for boosting morale, supporting recovery, and increasing retention.
How OCMI Workers Comp Helps Implement Effective Light Duty Programs
Whether you own or manage a small or mid-sized business, light duty programs play a major role in employee satisfaction and retention. The team at OCMI Workers Comp offers modified duty program support tailored to your needs—helping you save time and money along the way.
From return-to-work planning and customized modified duty roles to claims management and communication, OCMI Workers Comp is here to support you and your team. Implementing effective light duty programs specific to the needs of your business and employees is essential to their success.
Lower Your Claims Costs with OCMI’s Modified Duty Support
Workplace injuries and workers’ compensation claims can be concerning at first, but they don’t have to completely overwhelm you and your business. When injured employees reach a certain point in their recovery process, modified duty programs can be incredibly beneficial for helping them remain engaged at work.
OCMI Workers’ Comp has helped countless employers implement effective return-to-work programs that benefit both their employers and their operations. If you’re ready to reduce workers compensation costs and improve employee retention rates, reach out to us today to find out how the experienced team can support you and your employees.
