OBJECTIVES: This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of the Return to Work (RTW) program in the treatment of disabled workers due to occupational accidents in Indonesia. Therefore, this study was conducted to investigate the impact of the RTW program on the reintegration of disabled workers into the work environment, as well as to evaluate its effect on the efficiency of medical care expenditure.

METHODS: The data used in this study was obtained from work injury claims filed from 2012 to August 2022. The study sample included individuals who had participated in the RTW program as part of the case management system for disabled workers. The outcome variables observed included the number of days away from work due to injury (LTIDs), the percentage of individuals who successfully returned to work, as well as the efficiency of medical care expenditure.

RESULTS: Data analysis involved 11,955 claims, of which 1,353 claims were identified as RTW programs and 10,602 claims as non-RTW. Of the individuals in the RTW program, 1,137 successfully reintegrated into the work environment. The findings showed significant differences between the RTW and non-RTW groups in terms of the number of days away from work due to injuries (LTIDs) (p < 0.001), as well as in treatment outcomes including labor market activeness or inactivity (p < 0.001). However, there was no significant effect on the value of medical benefits provided (p > 0.702).

CONCLUSIONS: The implementation of the RTW program was found to be effective in facilitating the reintegration of disabled workers into the work environment. The program had a positive impact on individual dignity, company productivity, and reduced LTIDs. However, there was no significant effect on medical care expenditure. The results of this study demonstrate the importance of RTW programs in achieving social and economic inclusion for disabled workers in Indonesia.