As a physician, you have a trusting relationship with your patient, and your words and actions affect their recovery more than anyone else’s.

That’s why it’s important when working with a patient who has been injured on the job to help them understand the benefits of staying connected to work as a vital part of recovery.

It is a rare and serious condition that puts someone off work completely. Occupational medicine proposes that we think about injury in the context of ability and function, not disease.

Most times, employers can make accommodations, or find alternate duties, that allow the patient to recover at work. Staying at work keeps the patient connected to all the social, psychological, and financial benefits that come with the workplace.

Prescribing time off work is sometimes necessary, and your patient, their employer, and the WCB relies on your expertise to determine when that is the case. We also rely on your judgement and recommendations for appropriate recover-at-work or return-to-work plans, as well as your leadership, advice and support throughout the process.

We are here to work with you and your patient to remove barriers to safe, healthy work. Together, we can provide the best possible support for your patient’s overall health and well-being.

In support of and to ensure continued strengthening of this relationship, we offer the following reference guides:

Managing a claim

Staying connected and returning to work

Billing

Direct access and tiered services 

Centralized Surgical Services Program

PayDirect

Enhanced Physician Services

Support services