Challenge

An employer wanted to keep a billing clerk engaged while she received occupational therapy (OT) for carpal tunnel syndrome but was unable to provide an in-house modified duty position that could accommodate the employee’s restricted use of her right hand.

Solution

Sedgwick’s return to work (RTW) specialist recommended transitional placement for the employee at a non-profit thrift store. The temporary assignment kept her busy and gave her a sense of purpose while she completed regular OT and worked to safely regain hand strength.

Results

Following a full course of OT, she had regained enough hand strength to be released back to her full-duty job as a billing clerk. The employer appreciated the support provided to their injured employee, and the billing clerk was pleased with the opportunity to give back to the community and remain productive throughout her recovery.

The longer injured employees are off work, the greater the likelihood they will never return to work. Sedgwick’s early intervention and return to work programs help to facilitate positive claim outcomes.

Sedgwick’s transitional work placement services help WC clients:

Incur

19%

lower indemnity expenses

Bring down medical expenses by

33%

Shorten claim durations, minimize litigation, and promote healthy recovery