Even when an employer has clearly defined sickness absence policies long and avoidable delays occur in employees getting the right treatment, at the right time, and keeping the important goal of safe, sustainable return to work as a priority.

For Capita Health Solutions, occupational rehabilitation focuses on assessing and developing the functional capacity of the ill or injured employee for the purpose of safe, early return to work.

Occupational rehabilitation may not entail always purchasing new services or treatment, but the improved co-ordination of the existing services already being provided to the employee by different agencies including their GP or Specialist. Treating clinicians can be informed of the opportunities that exist in the workplace, with the support of the employer, for modified duties, effective return to work programs. Employees can be advised of the steps that they can take to promote safe and early return to work.