Effectiveness of Occupational Medicine Center-based Physical Therapy

A 1-year study was performed to evaluate discharge from therapy and return-to-work outcomes from rehabilitation services offered at four occupational medicine centers for work-related musculoskeletal injuries. The mean number of visits before discharge from therapy for 699 patients was 45% less than a national benchmark (mean visit number, 5.7 +/- 4.2 vs 10.5 +/- 9.1; P < 0.001). Return-to-work outcomes at discharge from therapy showed that 94% had returned-to-work. A telephonic satisfaction survey failed to identify client complaints associated with therapy. Assuming that reduced visit numbers would be reflected in a proportionate decrease in lost workdays, the program saved employers approximately $1.4 million, or $2000 per client. The authors attribute the improved outcomes to early therapy using active rather than passive techniques and an emphasis on patient education and home exercise programs.