Return to work benefits

A self-employed landscaper/engine maintenance worker was working in a family-owned business. He injured his back, and was diagnosed with cervical cord compression. This injury caused him difficulties with balancing, climbing, finger dexterity and strength. The RBC Insurance Customer Care team focused on possible job modifications, assistive devices and specialized equipment that could help him return to work.

A transferable skills analysis helped him identify alternate occupations within his skill level and physical capabilities. A job as a small engine repair technician was identified as the closest to his pre-disability occupation. The results of the analysis also indicated that this new position would require formal training and certification. RBC Insurance agreed to fund his enrolment in the small engine repair program, and contracted the services of an employment coach to assist him with job search activities. When his training and job search were completed, he was able to return to work full-time using his newly acquired skills.

A structural engineer was referred for return to work assistance 22 months after his original date of disability. Initially, information indicated that he would not be able to return to his pre-disability occupation, and that it might be necessary to assist him with a job search.

After further research, and a telephone discussion between our consulting psychiatrist and his treating psychiatrist, it seemed possible for him to return to work with his original employer. The structural engineer expressed interest in returning to his previous position, but was unsure of how he would be received by his co-workers and management team. The RBC Insurance Customer Care team advised him that we would assist him with the transition back to the workplace.

A rehabilitation specialist in his local community developed a plan, working with him, his employer and his treating psychiatrist. Using this gradual plan, he was able to return to his full-time duties.

A lawyer had just finished three months of disability and radiation treatment for thyroid cancer, and was ready to return to work. A barrier for her return was the difficulty she had projecting her voice in court. As a lawyer, this was a vital part of her occupation.

The RBC Insurance Customer Care team investigated potential adaptive technologies and assistive devices that would enhance her voice projection. As a result, RBC Insurance purchased a wireless transmitter and amplifier for her to wear. In addition, voice recognition software was installed on her personal work computer, allowing her to successfully return to work.