THE CASE-MANAGEMENT APPROACH TO WORK-RELATED INJURIES

Managing the patient with a work-related injury can be a challenging a nd time consuming task for the physician. There are numerous nonmedica l issues that can impact on the patient's response to treatment and ab ility to return to work. The case manager can assist the physician in managing the complex needs of the injured worker and can function as a n extension of the physician. The case management approach can benefit all parties and can result in a successful outcome for all involved.