What is the purpose of a return-to-work program?

The purpose of a return-to-work program is primarily to facilitate the transition back to work after an employee has experienced an injury or illness. These programs are designed to assist individuals in reintegrating into their workplace following disruptions to their employment due to health-related issues.

Such programs typically include various strategies that may involve modified duties, flexible schedules, or gradual increases in work responsibilities, all aimed at supporting the employee's recovery while also addressing the needs of the employer. This structured approach benefits both parties; it promotes the employee's well-being and readiness to return, while also helping the employer maintain productivity and reduce the costs associated with prolonged absences.

This focus on reintegration distinguishes return-to-work programs from other options, which may involve job changes, replacements, or performance evaluations but do not specifically target the process of facilitating recovery and re-engagement with work responsibilities after an absence due to health reasons.