Return-to-Work Management for Workers With Mild Traumatic Head Injury

1. Return-to-Work Guidelines

This chapter will review concussion in the workers’ compensation population and review appropriate clinical management. Return-to-work planning should include collaboration with clinicians to address any medical and nonmedical barriers. Return-to-work considerations should include the physical, cognitive, and environmental demands of the job.

2. Review of RTW Stages

In this chapter, we will review the return-to-work stages and address participation and activity goals for each. Progression should be individualized for each patient, and clinicians should identify specific treatment and work modifications for each worker’s job demands. Clear communication with medical clinicians will address patient progress through the stages of recovery, with an ultimate goal of discharge to full duty.

3. Patient Education and Outcomes

This chapter will address patient education and strategies that can be implemented to address effects of concussion on memory and concentration. Primary patient concerns will be addressed to allow for a smooth transition back to prior level of function. Finally, we will review current research on outcomes, explaining the benefits of returning this population to work and predictors of favorable recovery.