Return-To-Work FAQ
Can injured workers choose their own doctors as part of the RTW process?
Yes. Injured workers may choose to be treated by any doctor, and can also choose to be treated by other medical practitioners, such as chiropractors or physiotherapists.
Workers cannot unreasonably change medical practitioners while receiving compensation.
Is travel for medical care covered by the Board?
If the YWCHSB authorizes medical treatment that requires travel to another city, travel related expenses will be paid in accordance with Board Policy EN-11.
Is an injured worker required to accept treatment?
Injured workers have a right to medical treatment. Workers are required to participate in all treatment the YWCHSB considers essential to their recovery.
What happens if an injured worker is left with a permanent impairment?
A worker who has had a work-related injury may be entitled to benefits that compensate him or her for a permanent impairment, which is a permanent loss to a part, function or system of the body. Consult with your case manager for details.
Who decides when an injured worker is ready to safely return to work?
Return to work is a proactive approach to helping injured workers return to safe and productive work activities as soon as it is physically possible. It is a partnership involving employers, workers, health care providers, unions, and the Yukon Workers’ Compensation Health and Safety Board (YWCHSB).
Section 40 of the Act includes a duty to co-operate in early and safe return to work for all injured workers and their employers.
Once you are considered fit to return to suitable work with no loss of earning capacity, your compensation benefits will end.
The injured worker’s doctor has advised the worker that they are capable of light duties but the employer says there is no light duty work available. Is the worker still eligible for time loss benefits?
If your employer does not have suitable work available, you will be paid time loss benefits until you are able to resume your pre-accident duties or other suitable work that is reasonably available. This applies only to short duration claims.
When will my benefits end under the RTW program?
Medical benefits normally end when you have achieved maximum recovery from your injury or illness and require no further treatment This may be before or after you return to work.
Loss of earnings benefits usually end when your medical practitioner or the YWCHSB determines you are fit to return to suitable employment.
Vocational benefits normally end once you’ve returned to work or are considered fit for suitable employment.
After recovery, if a worker cannot find work, will they still get compensation?
The YWCHSB is responsible for providing fair compensation and services to help you become fit to return to some type of suitable employment. Inability to find work does not entitle you to compensation benefits indefinitely, nor does it entitle you to vocational rehabilitation services. Other agencies are mandated to assist workers in finding employment once they are work ready.
Is there any other financial assistance available for re-employment?
You may be eligible for financial assistance for re-employment. Please contact your case manager for more information.
Yukon Workers' Compensation Health and Safety Board
