Absence monitoring. A case management perspective

1. A need for absence monitoring was identified at a three facility complex. The company's direct and indirect costs for nonoccupational absences exceeded costs of occupational absences. 2. Occupational health nurses gained management support for a proactive absence monitoring program. 3. An absence monitoring program was developed and implemented using a case management approach. 4. Quantitative analysis revealed the program was well received by employees and valued by management. The data also proved the program was cost effective.