Reference Guide - wsib

Communication among workplace parties
Communication is an important element in the success of the Program of Care and the health of
the worker, and may include telephone conversations, written reports and one-on-one discussion with
the ill worker.
The frequency of communication will vary from case to case depending on the circumstances of the
worker and the progress involved. Communication during the recovery and return to work process may
include the following parties:
• the ill worker
• the treating physician and/or specialist
• the employer
• the WSIB service delivery team: adjudicator, nurse case manager, and medical consultant
• other concurrent or future treatment providers.
In order to facilitate return to work planning, it is extremely important that the physician contact the
employer regarding the workers ability to return to work. Communication with the employer should occur
when the screening and initial assessment is completed, when the worker is fit for work with modifications
or limitations, or when the worker may return to regular work with no restrictions.
If the worker is referred to a specialist (e.g. for ACD), it may not be possible to determine the
workplace modifications or limitations upon completion of the screening and initial assessment.
This information will be available following the specialist’s assessment.
NOTE: Communication between the physician and the employer is restricted to discussion of the worker’s functional
abilities unless the worker’s informed consent is obtained.
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