Getting Back to Work

Getting Back to Work

Getting back on the job is an important part of the healing process — physically, emotionally, and often financially. That's why Pinnacol works closely with your employer to find ways for you to contribute while still recovering.

Return-to-Work Programs

A return-to-work program is a plan to help you start working again during your recovery, either at your regular position or at modified duties. Getting back to work quickly allows you to:

• Stay connected to your workplace
• Regain financial security
• Feel productive again

Modified Duty

If your doctor believes you’re ready to return to work in some capacity, your employer may offer you modified duties. The job may be part-time or full-time, but it's not intended to be permanent. The ultimate goal is to get you back to your regular position.

By law, you must accept a modified position if your employer has one available and you're capable of performing it — or risk having your workers' comp benefits terminated.

For modified duty assignments, you'll receive:

• Wages appropriate for the tasks being performed
• Two-thirds of the difference between the modified duty wages and your pre-injury wage

You may remain on modified duty until your doctor says it's OK for you to return to your regular duties or you reach maximum medical improvement, which is the point when your condition will not benefit from further treatment.