Back at It

The WCB can help you develop an effective Return to Work program

Submitted by the Workers Compensation Board of Manitoba

Last fall, the Workers Compensation Board (WCB) ran its first “Return to Work” campaign – an exciting next step in its continued promotion of Return to Work best practices to employers, workers and healthcare professionals.

There are a lot of benefits to a safe Return to Work program. A gradual return with modified duties can mean a better recovery for injured or ill workers. For employers, it means having that valued employee back sooner.

But a good Return to Work plan isn’t developed in a vacuum. It’s not “one size fits all” because every workplace is different.

A Return to Work plan is built with the worker, employer, healthcare provider and the WCB to ensure things are done right, done safely and done with the worker’s health in mind.

The WCB offers free, one-day workshops for employers wanting to enhance or develop a Return to Work program.

An effective Return to Work program can:

  • Reduce WCB premiums
  • Improve morale
  • Retain skilled employees
  • Increase productivity

The WCB’s Return to Work Program Services team:

  • Leads workshops in WCB Basics and Return to Work Basics
  • Provides custom workshops to employer groups of 10 or more
  • Consults and supports workplaces in updating or creating a Return to Work program
  • Explains how the WCB operates, including:
    • Current assessment rate model
    • Claims adjudication and management
    • Compliance (understanding rights and responsibilities)
    • The appeal process

If you’re interested in the WCB setting up a workshop for Return to Work Basics and WCB Basics in the Brandon area in the near future, call the WCB Brandon Regional office at 204-571-4870.

For more information about workshops in Winnipeg, go to www.wcb.mb.ca/training, call 204-954-6161 in Winnipeg or toll-free 1-855-954-4321 ext. 6161 or email rtwprogramservices@wcb.mb.ca.

See How You’re Doing

Take the WCB’s five-minute employer self-assessment to see how your Return to Work program measures up.

The results will give you tips on next steps to improve your Return to Work program and processes.

Just go to the WCB website at www.wcb.mb.ca/return-to-work-employer-self-assessment-tool.

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