Evaluating the RECOVER model as an effective early intervention program

This project report is part of an overall evaluation of the RECOVER pilot expansion. RECOVER is an example of an employer-driven early intervention initiative that relied on the development of collaborative working relationships between Fraser Health, WorkSafeBC, and community physiotherapy providers. The pilot's aim was to minimize lengthy delays to appropriate treatment, and to keep the injured workers connected to the workplace during their time of recovery. In this report, a population of eligible Fraser Health employees who experienced an acute, musculoskeletal injury while completing their duties at work was compared in terms of this population group's sample of eligible employees who voluntarily chose to accept the employer's offer to participate in the pilot versus those who voluntarily declined the employer's offer, even though they were eligible for participation. Variables for comparison included the employees' age, occupational group, work status, and WSBC SDL office managing their file. Qualitative instruments were also used to obtain mean satisfaction values from pilot participants and RECOVER service providers. Findings from this mixed-methods evaluation indicated that as of four months post-pilot expansion, RECOVER demonstrated that it was an effective way of delivering early intervention services to injured employees with an acute work-related musculoskeletal injury. This was observed through a high rate of voluntary employee acceptance for pilot participation, and through high mean satisfaction values received from RECOVER participants and service providers. --P. ii.