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Workers' CompensationD. Notices for Return to Work and Modified or Light DutyPrepared by members of Oregon Workers' Compensation Attorneys "Regular work" is the work a patient performed at the time of the original accident. When the physical or durational demands of employment duties must be altered to accommodate a patientŐs impairment, that worker is said to require "modified work." 21. Whom must the doctor notify when a worker is released to return to work? The doctor must notify: a. The employer in writing, b. The insurer in writing, and c. The worker (no particular way specified). If the worker is not made aware of the release and, for that reason, does not return to work, the worker will not be paid time loss or wages. 22. When a doctor releases an injured worker for "light" or modified duty, what information must be included in the release? The doctor should clearly and specifically state what restrictions must be observed for the patient at work. The doctor should state: a. Whether the release is for "regular" or "modified" work b. Work that may not be performed c. Lifting (weight) limitations d. Twisting limitations and other moving limitations e. Repetitive movements that may not be performed f. Time limits for working, standing, etc. Please note: When an employer, insurer or vocational consultant presents a "job description" purporting to describe the demands of modified work which may be offered to the patient, the doctor should review the job description with the patient that the worker may have an opportunity to comment on whether the demands of the proposed modified job, as it actually exists, conform to the "job description." Return to Answers to Medical Questions Front Page Collection: Rates, Bills, Settlements | Aggravation | Communication with Attorneys, Insurers and Patients | Notices for Return to Work and Modified or Light Duty | Report Writing, Magic Words; Standards for Injury, Aggravation and Occupational Disease | Treatment after Claim Closure and in Aggravation Situations | Time Loss Authorization Last update: June 1, 2001
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