Returning to work: work ability secures business in the skilled trades sector

01 Situation

A 42-year-old carpenter from a trade in Zurich fell from a ladder. Initially, he only felt slight pain and was still able to put weight on his leg, which is why he assumed it was a sprain and wanted to take it easy for two days.

02 Solution

As his company works with a doctor , the patient contacted him the very next day. An immediate medical examination was recommended, which diagnosed an ankle fracture . Thanks to the rapid intervention, the patient was operated on within 48 hours.

03 Partial ability to work

The surgeon originally predicted that the patient would be completely unable to work for 12 weeks. However, the doctor recognized the potential for an early return to work. In consultation with the patient and the employer, a gradual reintegration was achieved:

• Weeks 1-3: 0% fit for work
• Week 3-8: 40% able to work (administrative tasks in the office & project coordination)
• Week 8-12: 60% able to work (organizational construction site work, in compliance with medical instructions)
• After 12 weeks: 100% fit for work (after final orthopaedic clearance)

04 Results

• Improved project management: the patient was already productive again after the 3rd week
• Significant cost savings: CHF 18,000 - CHF 30,000 for the company
• Reduction in absenteeism: by a total of 30 days

05 Sharing the success story

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