Workers’ Compensation Return to Work Philosophy The NARS Way – Return to Work Philosophy The claim specialist's return to work strategy, at a minimum, should capture the following: • Reduced hours/graduated return to work plans • Alternative schedule options • Alternative position options • Training • Assignment of a field case manager • Assignment to a transitional return to work partner • Conference A strategy conference shall occur in the following situations: • The injured worker remains out of work beyond the expected disability period • The employer indicates that they do not have transitional/modified work available • The injured worker is no longer employed with the employer • The injured worker is refusing a job offer The conference may include any, but is not limited to, the following: • Unit Manager • Claims Director • Employer (and or the client's loss control/risk management team) • Nurse Case or Vocational Case Manager • Defense Counsel If the disability continues beyond the expected disability period, the claim specialist shall consider any of the following: • Independent Medical Exam • Functional Capacity Evaluation • When allowed, request a referral to a new treating physician • Consider vocational assessments • Peer-to-peer review NARS’ Best Practices were created by and for the internal use of NARS and are confidential, proprietary and trade secret documents protected by the Uniform Trade Secrets Act and applicable state/federal law. They may not be copied, distributed, or reproduced, in whole or in part, without NARS’ express prior written authorization. Unauthorized use or distribution may be subject to civil and/or criminal penalties.