InjuryNET's Six Guiding
Stay at Work / Return to Work Principles

Stay-at-work / Return-to-work is the central goal of clinical management

1. Time off work should only be certified when medically necessary.
2. Lost Time is medically necessary when:
   • Recovery requires confinement at home or in bed. Eg. Hospitalisation, surgery, skeletal traction Work or commute is medically contraindicated Will worsen medical condition or delay recovery
   • Lost Time is generally unecessary when certified restrictions are appropriate and adhered to in the workplace
3. Staying at work prevents the development and/or worsening of psychosocial issues
4. Medical certificates of capacity must be clear, specific and demonstrate progress
5. Effective communication and teamwork are critical
6. Clinical management must be based on evidence