Return-to-Work Evaluation: Employer's Quick Guide
Everything employers need to know about Return to Work — who needs it, what's included, and how to find a provider through BlueHive.
At a glance
- Turnaround
- 24-48 hours
- Typical cost
- $200–$500
- CPT code
- 99456
What Is Return to Work?
Every day an employee stays out of work costs you productivity, morale, and workers' comp exposure. BlueHive's return-to-work evaluations get employees back safely and quickly — with clear restrictions, accommodation guidance, and documentation your legal team can rely on.
A Return-to-Work Evaluation is a medical assessment conducted when an employee is ready to return to work following an injury, illness, or extended medical leave. This evaluation ensures the employee can safely perform their job duties and identifies any necessary work restrictions or accommodations.
Who Needs This Service?
- Employees returning from workers' compensation leave
- Employees recovering from surgery
- Workers returning after extended illness
- Employees with work-related injuries
What's Included
A typical Return to Work appointment includes:
- Job-specific physical requirements assessment
- Work restriction recommendations
- Accommodation guidance
- Clearance documentation
- Follow-up evaluation scheduling
Turnaround time: 24-48 hours
Typical cost: $200–$500
How It Works
- Submit Request — Employer or employee initiates return-to-work evaluation request.
- Provide Documentation — Submit treating physician's release and job description.
- Complete Evaluation — Employee undergoes examination focused on job requirements.
Related Services
Ready to get started? Find a provider for Return to Work or learn more about this service.
How Return to Work works, step by step
- 1
Submit Request
Employer or employee initiates return-to-work evaluation request.
- 2
Provide Documentation
Submit treating physician's release and job description.
- 3
Complete Evaluation
Employee undergoes examination focused on job requirements.
- 4
Return to Work
Receive clearance with any necessary restrictions or accommodations.
Regulatory snapshot
ADA (42 U.S.C. §12112); FMLA return-to-work provisions (29 CFR Part 825); state workers' compensation statutes
Track state-by-state changes in Compliance WatchFrequently asked questions
Frequently asked questions
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Content Developer
64 articles
Chris Davis is a content developer at BlueHive Health with a background in healthcare operations, medical billing, and small-business management. He writes plain-English guides on OSHA, DOT, and PHMSA compliance for HR and safety leaders.
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