WORKERS' COMP
Return-to-Work Program
Return-to-work (RTW) programs are among the most effective drivers of successful Workers’ Compensation outcomes, improving recovery timelines, supporting employee well-being, and reducing indirect business expenses and overall claims costs.
A SIMPLE GUIDE FOR EMPLOYERS
While most employers are aware of the benefits of a return-to-work program, some might be intimidated by what they think is a complicated and expensive undertaking. But restoring an employee to a useful role after an on-the-job incident doesn’t need to be either. GUARD’s Return-to-Work Program focuses on just four elements:
#1 - Immediate Claims Reporting
The sooner a workplace injury or illness is reported, the sooner the claims process can begin. Only the administration of emergency care should come first. Early intervention helps preserve key details, ensures appropriate medical treatment from the start, and can minimize or even eliminate time away from the job.
GUARD makes it easy for our policyholders to report claims to us via 1-888-NEW-CLMS or online 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
#1 - Immediate Claims Reporting
The sooner a workplace injury or illness is reported, the sooner the claims process can begin. Only the administration of emergency care should come first. Early intervention helps preserve key details, ensures appropriate medical treatment from the start, and can minimize or even eliminate time away from the job.
GUARD makes it easy for our policyholders to report claims to us via 1-888-NEW-CLMS or online 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
#2 - Coordination of Medical Care
For Workers’ Compensation claims that involve medical treatment, GUARD’s services range from the use of preferred medical provider networks and vocational rehabilitation to medical bill/hospital audits and prescription drug management. (Methods vary by state.) Overall, we strive to facilitate quality medical care in a cost-effective manner.
*Managed care for Workers’ Compensation is voluntary in some states. Services vary by state and are offered in accordance with all state laws and regulations.
#2 - Coordination of Medical Care
For Workers’ Compensation claims that involve medical treatment, GUARD’s services range from the use of preferred medical provider networks and vocational rehabilitation to medical bill/hospital audits and prescription drug management. (Methods vary by state.) Overall, we strive to facilitate quality medical care in a cost-effective manner.
*Managed care for Workers’ Compensation is voluntary in some states. Services vary by state and are offered in accordance with all state laws and regulations.
Preferred Medical Provider Network
Using state-of-the-art geomapping software, GUARD creates a unique list of preferred medical providers for each of our Workers’ Comp policyholders. The selection represents a mix of occupational health specialists conveniently located near a business. A Physician Look-Up is also available from our website. Use of the providers is optional in some states.
#3 - Transitional Job Options
When an injury/illness creates limitations and an employee is not able to return to his/her original job, a modified or alternative role may be necessary. GUARD’s in-house registered nurses collaborate closely with our claims adjusters and treating providers to align clinical care with return-to-work objectives including modified tasks, alternate assignments, or temporary job adjustments. In cases where no alternative work is available, we can connect the employer with third-parties for help.
#3 -Transitional Job Options
When an injury/illness creates limitations and an employee is not able to return to his/her original job, a modified or alternative role may be necessary. GUARD’s in-house registered nurses collaborate closely with our claims adjusters and treating providers to align clinical care with return-to-work objectives including modified tasks, alternate assignments, or temporary job adjustments. In cases where no alternative work is available, we can connect the employer with third-parties for help.
#4 - Communication
Successful RTW programs depend on regular communication among the employer, injured employee, medical provider, and claims team. Clear, transparent updates help reduce uncertainty, maintain trust, and support better decision-making from the first report of injury through to final recovery.
Our Claims Message Center available from our Policyholder Service Center, provides quick and easy access to our adjusters.
#4 - Communication
Successful RTW programs depend on regular communication among the employer, injured employee, medical provider, and claims team. Clear, transparent updates help reduce uncertainty, maintain trust, and support better decision-making from the first report of injury through to final recovery.
Our Claims Message Center available from our Policyholder Service Center, provides quick and easy access to our adjusters.
Why Return to Work Matters
A well-executed RTW strategy supports both employers and employees by creating a more structured, connected recovery process.
POTENTIAL BENEFITS FOR EMPLOYERS
✔ Greater control over claim costs
✔ Less disruption to operations and productivity
✔ Reduced overtime and replacement staffing needs
✔ Better retention of experienced employees
✔ Improved morale and workplace continuity
✔ Less opportunity for litigation
POTENTIAL BENEFITS FOR EMPLOYEES
✔ A quicker, more supported path back to productivity
✔ More normal routines and daily engagement
✔ Opportunity to maintain earning capacity
✔ A stronger sense of connection to the workplace during recovery
Review our Return-to-Work Program Guide or visit www.guard.com.
Backed by Berkshire Hathaway
Property and Casualty Insurance
A+ Superior Rating as of 08/12/2026
Established 1983
Nationwide Operations
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