When should an adjuster make a referral to a RTW Consultant?

An adjuster should refer to a Return-to-Work (RTW) Consultant when the worker begins missing time from work because early intervention is crucial in facilitating their return to the workplace. Missing time indicates that the worker may be experiencing difficulties that could hinder their rehabilitation or reintegration into their job. By making a referral at this point, the adjuster can ensure that the worker receives the necessary support and resources to address their challenges and develop a plan for returning to work, thus promoting a smoother transition and potentially reducing the duration of the claim.

Other scenarios, such as waiting for a claim to be denied or for a worker to return to work, would not be proactive and may lead to longer recovery times and increased claim costs. Additionally, relying solely on the worker's request for an RTW Consultant may miss important opportunities for intervention and support that could arise during the claim process.