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Prevention of work-related disability
1Kaiser Permanente Northwest, Portland, OR 97210, USA.
American Journal of Preventive Medicine
|May 5, 1998
Summary
Managed care programs can effectively reduce work-related disability and associated costs. The Kaiser on-the-job program demonstrated significant decreases in lost workdays and claims costs, improving workplace health.
Area of Science:
- Occupational health
- Managed care
- Disability prevention
Background:
- Rising costs of work-related injuries necessitate solutions.
- Managed care providers are key in facilitating return to work.
- Kaiser Permanente developed the Kaiser on-the-job program for disability prevention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe managed care's role in preventing work-related disability.
- To present the Kaiser on-the-job program's methods and outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Managed care interventions: consultation, training, immunization, screening, case management.
- Quality and case management system for physician feedback on work modifications and time-off.
- Analysis of physician-authorized time loss and claims cost data.
Main Results:
- Statistically significant decrease in average time loss for low back cases (1991-1995).
- 33% reduction in average total claims cost for disabling cases compared to other organizations.
- P-values of .01 for time loss and .002 for claims cost reduction.
Conclusions:
- The utilized methods for preventing work-related disability are effective.
- The program is relevant for managed care models aiming to enhance workplace health and productivity.