New report reveals how many people returned to work within four months
The Government of Alberta says the 2023 annual report from the Workers’ Compensation Board (WCB) demonstrates the success of its workers’ compensation, recovery, and return-to-work initiatives.
Key findings include:
- 83% of injured workers received wage-loss benefits within 14 days of claim registration, ensuring timely financial support.
- 85% of injured workers returned to work within four months, including those on modified duties, exceeding provincial targets.
- For workers unable to return to their previous jobs, 85% were provided with job placements or re-employment opportunities.
- 86% of workers expressed satisfaction with the timeliness, transparency, and respect demonstrated by WCB during their recovery process.
These results highlight the efficiency of Alberta’s workers’ compensation system in delivering timely support and fostering safe, meaningful return-to-work solutions for injured employees.
Trevor Alexander, President & CEO, Workers’ Compensation Board – Alberta, stated: “These results demonstrate Alberta’s commitment to creating a workers’ compensation system that puts workers first. The partnership between the government and WCB has led to faster claims processing, enhanced recovery support, and improved satisfaction levels. Together, we are building a stronger system to serve all Albertans.”
Early intervention
WCB has prioritized issuing wage-loss benefits within two weeks of claim registration, ensuring injured workers can focus on recovery without financial insecurity. Early intervention strategies, combined with access to modified work options, have also been instrumental in achieving the 85 per cent return-to-work rate.
For those unable to return to their previous roles, WCB partnered with employers and other stakeholders to provide tailored re-employment solutions. By helping 85 per cent of these individuals transition to new opportunities, the WCB is preserving long-term financial and professional stability for Alberta’s workforce.
These results reflect a workers’ compensation system that not only delivers on its commitments but also continues to evolve to meet the needs of injured workers and their employers.
