Return to work (RTW) coordinators are individuals appointed by their employers to plan and manage their company's RTW program.
A return to work (RTW) coordinator is a person appointed by an employer to facilitate the process of helping injured workers transition back to work, part of which includes managing their company's RTW program.
Their role involves coordinating with medical professionals, insurers, and the worker to develop and implement a tailored RTW plan. This plan ensures the worker's duties align with their recovery and abilities.
The coordinator also monitors progress and addresses any issues that may arise, helping to minimise downtime and ensuring compliance with workers compensation requirements.
A RTW coordinator's responsibilities include:
- Monitoring Recovery Progress: Track the injured worker’s recovery and readiness to return to work.
- Developing and Implementing RTW Plans: Formulate personalised Return to Work plans in consultation with other key stakeholders involved in the injured worker’s claim.
- Maintaining Communication: Correspond regularly with the injured worker and their support team throughout their work rehab process.
- Preventing Repeat Injury: Identify potential hazards and implement safety measures to comply with work health and safety regulations, so as to minimise the recurrence of similar injuries.
- Modifying the Workplace: Implement strategies or modifications in the work environment that enable the employee to work within capacity.
- Finding Suitable Duties: Assist in finding suitable roles for the injured worker within the organisation, if they are unable to return to their pre-injury duties.
- Ensuring Confidentiality: Maintain confidentiality regarding personal information, medical health records and other sensitive data.
- Resolving RTW Issues: Help resolve any issues or disputes related to the Return to Work process.
- Ensuring Compliance: Verify that both the injured worker and the employer meet their RTW obligations under relevant legislation.
To find out more about how RTW coordinators make a positive difference to your organisation, read our blog article: How Return to Work Coordinators Transform the Workplace.