The Workers' Compensation Board has prepared Disability Duration Guidelines which may be used as a "yardstick" in determining what a reasonable period of absence from the workplace would be for a variety of compensable illnesses and injuries. In short an injured worker should return to work when it is "safe" and when further absence from the work site will not contribute to the recovery process. We must be cognizant of the fact that returning to work has therapeutic value.

When an individual hasn't returned to work within a reasonable recovery period we must look at the case again to determine the barriers for return to work:

• Is the diagnosis correct?
• Is there evidence of complication or concurrent illness to account for prolonged recovery?
• Is a chronic pain syndrome developing?
• Are there psychosocial factors responsible for continued disability?

The Board has staff physicians and access to specialist services to assist in cases of diagnostic dilemma and treatment failures. We are also available for assistance and recommendations regarding fitness for return to work and return to work processes (including modified and ease back programs and the involvement of Vocational Rehabilitation Counsellors).

The benefits of returning to work following any illness or injury cannot be overstated.

The Medical Department of the Workers' Compensation Board strongly endorses the Canadian Medical Association's policy on "The Physician's Role in Helping Patients Return to Work After an Illness or Injury" (copy enclosed). We are of the opinion that all health care providers will be doing our clients a great service if the spirit and principles of this policy are incorporated into the overall treatment plans being provided.