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Return-To-Work: The OT’s Role

Occupational therapists (OTs) support you during your transition back into the worker role after an injury or accident.  OTs facilitate realistic and proactive return to work planning that considers all of the factors that impact success. Our OTs partner with you to develop plans that enable you to re-build your specific work skills, and the confidence needed for long-term success.

Location of Services:   

Our OTs meet you at your home and workplace to develop a return-to-work plan and to facilitate your progress.

Examples of Services: 

  • Job Site Visit
  • Job Demands Analysis
  • Assistive Technology
  • Ergonomic Assessments
  • Assessing Function in relation to Work Demands
  • Gradual Return-to-Work (GRTW) Planning
  • Gradual Return-to-Work (GRTW) Monitoring
  • Vocational Assessment
  • Accommodations

How can OT help me return to work?   

  • Assess return to work readiness
  • Provide education, strategies and coping tools
  • Facilitate symptom management
  • Prescribe and organize appropriate assistive and ergonomic equipment
  • Develop personalized plans with attainable goals
  • Advocate for return to work options with your employer
  • Provide on- and off-site coaching

Who can refer me?        

There are many professionals who can refer you to RTW Occupational Therapy.  These include:

  • Medical providers, such as your GP, physiotherapist, psychologist, etc.
  • Public services, such as WorkSafe BC, ICBC, health authorities and hospitals.
  • Other professionals involved in your recovery, such as your insurance specialists, adjuster or lawyer.

Who pays?

OT services are typically funded by WorkSafe BC, ICBC, your extended health insurance coverage, health authorities or legal settlements.  You or your family can also pay for your treatment privately.

Why OT Works?

We have assisted clients as they returned to work and other meaningful activities since 2001.  At OT Works!, treatment is client-centred.  Every assessment and intervention is individualized so that your goals are in mind.  While our knowledge is extensive, we have a particular focus on cognitive challenges (mental health and concussions) and ergonomics.  Regardless of the nature of your challenges, we will partner with you to develop a plan built for your success. We help you return to work so that you can stay at work.