Although there is no actual definition of “long term sickness” the term is generally recognised to be anything in excess of 20 working days. The way you deal with long term sickness can have a profound effect on your bottom line – ignore it at your peril!!
The longer someone is off work the chances of them returning to work are greatly reduced. Anyone who is off work between 4 – 12 weeks has between 10% – 40% chance of still being off work one year lateraccording to statistics. If someone is off work for more than a year then the chances of them ever returning to work are remote at best.
It is therefore vitally important that you are able to monitor absenteeism and identify situations which could lead to a long time off work.
Returning to work
The key factor in encouraging the employee to return to work is offer help and support in the early stages and don’t assume the worst of staff. Encourage the employee to come in part time with a late start, missing the early morning traffic and to then leave early missing the afternoon blues. In some circumstances you could offer transport to and from work on a short term basis.
If however all else fails then you may need to seek professional support to provide a more proactive approach to managing long term sickness.
Independent Occupational Health Assessment for Sickness Absence
Healthwise are able to offer a service enabling an employer to refer employees to an Occupational Physician for an independent medical opinion and advice. This involves consultation and usually a report from the GP or Specialist.
Medical reviews can be conducted throughout the UK. The referral will culminate in a report to the company indicating the likely return-to-work timescales, restriction/modification of duties, application of the Disability Discrimination Act and any appropriate measures that may expedite a return to health and work, and/or determine eligibility for early retirement.
Fees:
Click here to see our Occupational Health Pricelist (PDF Download)
Physical consultation at any UK approved centre and report: £213.75 plus VAT
If however you have several assessments to undertake on the same day it may be more cost effective for an Occupational Physician to visit the company: £665 per half day / £1140 per full day
N.B. If a GP or specialist report is required and billed for, the cost will be re-charged in addition to the above fees.
Some providers charge a set up fee to start an account; the fees detailed above are on a case by case basis with no hidden extras. Should you require any further assistance please feel free to contact our offices, or simply complete the Account Form and we will make contact with you.
Should you wish to refer an employee for an assessment please contact our offices for further information. Tel 01384-456345 or e-mail sales@healthwisegroup.co.uk
Long term sickness accounts for 6% of absence, however it makes up 33% of private sector lost time and 51% of public sector time
The longer someone is off work the less chance they will ever return to work
Employers need to make adjustments to the work and workplace
