01 Situation

A 29-year-old electrician in St. Gallen suffered a serious shoulder injury (Tossy III lesion) in a bicycle fall, which resulted in an operation and a planned period of incapacity to work of at least eight weeks.

02 Solution

The doctor coordinated closely with the employer to enable initial administrative activities as early as week four. Physiotherapy tailored to the occupational requirements provided optimum support for the healing process.

03 Partial ability to work

The gradual reintegration of the electrician proceeded as follows:

• Weeks 1-3: 0% fit for work
• Weeks 4-8: 50% fit for work (administrative tasks, light AVOR work)
• From week 8: 100% fit for work

04 Results

• 19 days reduction in days of absence
• Savings for the company: CHF 11,400 - 20,000
• Faster return to work and full availability after eight weeks
• Long-term skills development and motivation of the employee, resulting in a promotion to project manager
• Reduced risk of chronic complaints and long-term absences

05 Sharing the success story

This case impressively demonstrates how early intervention and flexible workplace design in the event of an accidental injury not only lead to considerable cost savings for employers and insurance companies, but also promote the personal and professional development of employees.

Source: This case study was provided by AcciMed GmbH and shortened with their permission.