Employee Health & Productivity (EHAP): Modified Duty Program

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Employee Health & Productivity (EHaP)
Modified Duty Program

Studies have shown that modified duty is an important part of recovery, often accelerating the healing process and improving well-being. To facilitate recovery for injured or ill employees, the County offers a modified duty program to accommodate temporary work restrictions resulting from occupational as well as non-work related injuries and illnesses.

Participation in the modified duty program provides value-added services to County Departments and enables employees to receive their full salary and benefits for hours worked. Employees are able to recuperate in their own work environment, and ease their transition back to full duty.

When a physician releases an employee to return to work with temporary medical restrictions, the EHaP Modified Duty Coordinators will work with the department, the employee, physician and department modified duty coordinator to facilitate appropriate placement in a modified duty assignment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to be seen at The Center for Employee Health and Wellness (CEHW) if my physican gives me work restrictions?
All employees returning with work restrictions must be cleared by the CEHW. Your supervisor or designated departmental representative will make an appointment for you. As you progress to full duty, you will need to be seen again by the CEHW whenever your restrictions change.

Is Modified Duty the same as “light duty"?
Yes, when an employee returns to work with the stipulation “light duty only”, this is considered a directive that the employee needs an accommodation for a temporary period of time.

What if my supervisor says that the department can’t accommodate my restrictions?
Many factors influence accommodation. For example, the physical restrictions given by the physician may be vague and need clarification, or accommodation may require the employee to perform other job duties. The EHaP Modified Duty Coordinators will work with the employee, the physician and the department in order to facilitate accommodation.