Return-to-work medical assessments following absence.
A return-to-work medical helps determine whether an employee is medically fit to resume their duties after an illness, injury or extended absence. Their previous fitness status may no longer provide enough information, particularly where the role involves specific physical demands or safety responsibilities that need to be considered alongside the employee’s recovery.
The assessment considers the employee’s current health in relation to the duties they are expected to resume. It gives employers information that can support medical clearance to return to work or identify where temporary restrictions should be considered.
Considering the employee’s current fitness.
The assessment may take account of the reason for the absence, the employee’s recovery and the requirements of the job. It could include a review of available medical information, discussion of current symptoms and a physical examination.
Additional tests may be relevant where the employee’s role involves:
- Driving or machine operation
- Physically demanding duties
- Work at height
- Respiratory exposure
- Workplace noise
- Other safety-critical responsibilities
Following the assessment, the occupational health practitioner may find the employee medically fit to resume their usual role. The outcome may also recommend temporary restrictions or further assessment before the employee returns to particular duties.
Return to Work Medicals on-site or at an IHSS clinic.
A return-to-work assessment provides one part of the information an employer may need when managing an employee’s return. HR and operational teams may still need to consider workplace adjustments, available duties and the employer’s incapacity process.
We offer individual appointments at our clinics, with on-site assessments available for suitable workforce programmes. Completing a return-to-work medical before an employee resumes safety-critical work gives the employer appropriate medical guidance to support their return.