Volume 9 • 2022 • Issue 1

TheMembers’Assistance Program(MAP) is sponsoredby CDSPI andprovides confidential short-termcounselling support, professional guidance, resources and referrals for dentists, dental office staffand immediate family members.MAPservices are complimentary andaccessible 24/7/365. ContactMAPat 1.844.578.4040 or visit theirwebsite at workhealthlife.com. MAP is operatedbyLifeWorks (formerlyMorneauShepell), the largestCanadian-basedEmployee andFamilyAssistanceprovider in the country.Available services varyby region.UseofMAP services is completely confidential within the limits of the law. • Healthy Workplace Series • The following article is adapted and reprinted with permission from the LifeWorks website www.workhealthlife.com Transitioning back into the workplace after an extended medical leave can be tough for even the most seasoned professionals. The leave of absence is not something employees plan for or desire, it is a medical necessity. They may wonder how their return will be received by others, and may also feel overwhelmed, out of touch and nervous about getting back to work. HowtoHelpEmployeesReturn fromSickLeave 1. Stay connected with employees on medical leave If you have permission to do so, touch base with employees even before they return. Checking in to see how they are doing sends an important message that you care, and gives you an opportunity to keep them in the loop about what is going on at work. Continuing to communicate with employees while they are away lets them know they are missed and gives them a sense of connection and belonging to the organization. 2. Work closely with the Disability Case Manager The LifeWorks Disability Case Manager will provide you with invaluable support during an employee leave. They will keep you abreast of significant changes in case status and encourage the employee to adhere to treatment to facilitate a timely return to work. Case Managers build a case management plan, and will also assist with: • Accommodation options based on employee restrictions and limitations CONTINUED Six steps to ease the transition back to work 33 Issue 1 | 2022 | SupportingYour Practice