This session will present how measurable benefits were demonstrated through objective outcomes when telephonic nurse case management services were provided for workers’ compensation cases in the federal sector. Outcomes were objectively measured by the Safety, Health, and Return-to-Employment (SHARE) Initiative, which tracked lost production days due to occupational disability. Over the first three years of the program, lost production days were reduced by 67% in the group receiving nurse case management services. Over the same time period, a similar group of federal agencies, not receiving nurse case management services, experienced only a 23% reduction.

Nurse case management services were delivered through the three-point-contact approach, including the employee, employer, and health care provider. Emphasis was placed on early intervention and assisting the employees with receiving timely and appropriate medical care--leading to reduced temporary and long-term disability. Providers were assisted with effectively utilizing the authorization and payment process of the Department of Labor, and applying medical guidelines to work-related restrictions.  Employers received guidance in interpreting medical information to enable appropriate assignment of job duties or approved leave during recovery. Employers were also assisted with preparation of documenta­tion and clarification of recommendations for presentation to the claims staff at the Department of Labor’s Office of Workers’ Compensation Programs. Services were primarily provided telephonically with occasional on-site visits with employee, employer, or health care provider.

In addition to the Early Intervention Program, long-term disabled employees were assisted in returning to productive employment, dispelling the common belief that workers compensation patients do not return to work after absences of two years.

The federal sector offers a unique environment for obtaining objective data due to reporting requirements and the focus on continued employment. This project’s demonstrated effectiveness contributes to evidence-based best practices within the nurse case management profession.

The co-presenters have been directly involved in this on-going program from inception in 2005, and will provide description of methods and practical tools for duplicating this success in non-federal environments where measurements may not be so readily available.