Expediting Return to Work Full Duty with Successful Onsite Medical Management

Abstract

Abstract Emory Healthcare with Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia is the largest employer in DeKalb County. Contract onsite physical therapy and ergonomic services were added in 2001. Emory employees with work related injures were discharged after five onsite physical therapy visits on average versus the national average of fourteen outpatient visits. The estimated cost savings was $887,574 in 2006. In 2008, Emory's Occupational Injury Management Department separated from the Employee Health Department to handle injured employees. Two orthopedic physical therapists specializing in ergonomics were hired full time. The injured employee fills out an online incident report and is seen by the medical staff within 1 to 48 hours. The employee is evaluated in physical therapy, treated and instructed in proper body mechanics. An ergonomic evaluation is performed if an employee has symptoms due to the work postures or the physical demands of the job. Physical therapy statistics of discharged patients were recorded for three years to evaluate the work status on discharge, the departments where injuries occurred, and types of injuries. The information was utilized to target the common injuries and develop a plan to reduce and prevent further injuries. Over 300 Emory employees were discharged annually from onsite physical therapy. The statistics consistently revealed 90% to 93% of the employees returned to work full duty. Only 35% of the employees required referral to an outside physician. The primary departments where injuries occurred were in Nursing, Facilities Management, and the Food and Nutrition Departments. Injury prevention programs were designed based on the ergonomic evaluations. The Safe Patient Handling Program was initiated in 2006. Overhead and mobile lifts were utilized. With continual nursing education and administrative support, there has been a 12.5% cumulative reduction in lifting injuries in 2014. In 2005, WC cases cost $3500 but currently are $1400. Emory's comprehensive approach expedites successful return to full duty work and reduces the cost of work related injuries.