How to Request WC Return-to-Work Status from Your Adjuster

Tuesday, September 1, 2009 | 0

By Robert Elliott

Establishing your company as thorough, polite and professional are key components to smooth workers' compensation resolution.

A polite e-mail to your adjuster requesting return-to-work status keeps the time line moving along, even if the employee isn't ready to return to work. You may be suprised to find though that the employee IS capable of working in a light-duty capacity.  Statistics show employees are happier and more successful in the long term if they can get back to work.

Helpful Tips:

1. Identify yourself as the injury coordinator at your company.
2. Include the case or claims number.
3. Explain you are reviewing all claims in their region.
4. Let them know your goal is swift resolution.
5. Tell the adjuster the main focus is determining whether injured employees can return to work.
6. Let them know your company has a transitional duty program.
7. Attach a copy of your special handling instructions if the adjuster isn't familiar with your special requirements.
8. Ask politely "where we are" with regard to the employee retuning to work.
9. Each case is different, but, for example you may want to note this employee does not seem to be healed or reached Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI) and even if MMI is reached, the employee may not be able to return to the original position.
10. Note you then have two options: either locate a different position within your company or put the employee in a vocational rehabilitation program to find another type of job. This shows an aggressive desire to resolve the claim.
11. Remind the adjuster   waiting a year or more for the employee to reach MMI does not resolve the problem and only allows the injured worker to adjust to not working at all.
12. Ask for an email  with any additional details and remind them of your weekly upcoming telephone conference you hope they will be a part of.
13. Make sure every POA (Plan of Action) includes specific action items and doesn't simply say "get employee back to work." ASK to see the POA. (workersxzcompxzkit).
14. Make sure to say "thank you" to the adjuster for his or her work and cooperation.