Part Two: Identify and Assess Strategic Options

As an industrial therapist, you possess a wealth of knowledge and skills that significantly benefit employer partners. In this second article of our series, we will explore how to use and build on your current knowledge and skill base to implement Early Intervention (EI) and Prevention services, ultimately reducing employee injury rates.

Identify Employer Partners’ Hot Buttons

Begin by engaging with employer partners to understand their primary concerns and areas of greatest need. Identifying these “hot buttons” allows you to tailor your services to effectively address the most pressing issues. Develop a strategic plan that includes specific program content, timing, participation, and data collection methods. Remember to discuss reimbursement options to ensure sustainability and mutual benefit.

Leverage Your Expertise

• Musculoskeletal Disorders: Your expertise in musculoskeletal disorders positions you as a valuable resource for employers looking to mitigate related injuries.
• Treating Comorbidities: Your experience with individuals who have multiple health conditions can help in creating comprehensive care plans that address various aspects of employee health.
• Systemic Relationships: Your understanding of how the neurological, cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, digestive, and respiratory systems interact allows you to provide holistic care and prevention strategies.

Training Opportunities

• Prior-to-Hire Assessments: Obtain training in conducting assessments before hiring. These assessments ensure that candidates are physically capable of performing job tasks safely, which can reduce new employee injury rates by up to 50%.
• Return-to-Work Assessments: Training in return-to-work assessments helps place employees returning from workers’ compensation or medical leave into roles that match their current capabilities, minimizing the risk of re-injury.
• Ergonomics and Job Analysis: Training in ergonomics and ergonomic job analysis can help identify workplace modifications that prevent injuries and improve overall workplace safety.
• Stretching and Strengthening Programs: Your knowledge in these areas can be utilized to design programs that enhance employee flexibility and strength, further reducing injury risk.

Cast a Wide Net for Data Collection

To demonstrate the effectiveness of your programs, it is essential to collect comprehensive data. This data will help track progress and provide evidence of the impact your services have on the organization. Key metrics to collect include:

• Number of Full-Time Equivalent (FTE) Employees
• Number of Workers’ Compensation Claims
• Number of Lost Time Claims
• Average amounts paid for Lost Time Claims
• Average amounts paid for Non-Lost Time Claims
• Percentage of New Hire Injuries
• Workers’ Compensation MOD Ratings

By gathering and analyzing this data, you can provide valuable insights to your employer partners, helping them see the tangible benefits of implementing Early Intervention and Prevention services.

By taking these steps, you will successfully implement strategic Early Intervention and Prevention services. This proactive approach will position you as an indispensable partner in promoting workplace health and safety, proving your value to Employer Partners, and solidifying your place within local industries!