Did you know that in 2023, employers reported 2.6 million injury and illness cases, which is an 8.4% decrease from 2022, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics? In spite of the fact that employees can claim worker’s compensation once injured, there are those who are significantly impacted by their injury especially if it is severe.
This results in most employees wondering if their employer will allow them to return to work after an injury. Every state has its own rule when it comes to this issue. For example, the workers’ compensation return to work policy in California guarantees affected employees proper workplace accommodations, medical care, discrimination protection, job stability, and legal counsel.
Let’s learn more about how the process of returning to employment works in California.
Workers' Compensation Eligibility Requirements
In California, the state law has outlined its own specific eligibility criteria. First, you need to be an employee since independent contractors are typically not covered under workers' compensation. Next, the injury or illness you sustained must have occurred while you are on duty.
Quickly report work-related injuries to meet certain deadlines. Once you have successfully met all the eligibility requirements, you may be entitled to benefits such as medical care coverage, temporary disability payments, permanent disability benefits, and vocational rehabilitation services.
Medical Evaluation and Treatment Plan
A Lexington workplace accident attorney says that a thorough medical evaluation and customized treatment plan are the next steps to rehabilitation and work return. Your doctor will evaluate your work-related injuries to identify treatment and recovery goals. This strategy may include therapies, drugs, surgeries, or other interventions to heal and restore function. Keep your lines of communication with your doctor open to properly facilitate your recovery.
Temporary Disability Benefits Process
If you're injured at work in California, you may qualify for temporary disability compensation. Temporary disability payments give you provisional financial support and provide partial wage replacement. This is very helpful especially if you missed out on work payments caused by the injury.
Do not delay seeking medical treatment from an approved healthcare provider. Keep all communication and documentation related to your injury and treatment to streamline the temporary disability benefits process.
Job Accommodations and Return-to-Work Plan
While recovering, carefully study the possibilities of job accommodations that can help you perform your responsibilities effectively once you return to work. These accommodations could include changes to your workstation, flexible work hours, or modified job duties to suit your current abilities.
Creating a return-to-work plan involves collaborating with your employer to establish a structured timeline for your gradual return to full work duties. This plan outlines the steps involved in transitioning back to work, including any necessary accommodations, training, or support you may need during this process.
Vocational Rehabilitation Assistance
Individuals who are re-entering the workforce are the target audience for vocational rehabilitation programs, which are aimed to assist them in obtaining the skills and resources necessary to do so successfully.
These services offer you advice on job training, educational options, resume creation, and interview preparations.
Conclusion
Now that you finished reading this article, you are now equipped with the knowledge on the process of returning to work after an injury. Keep in mind that it is very important to express your needs and plans to your employer, healthcare providers, and workers' compensation representatives to ensure a smooth return to work process.
