Preventing Absenteeism through Medical Coaching
A practical and empathetic approach for employers
We understand how important it is to maintain a healthy and motivated work environment. That’s why we have developed a friendly and effective 3-step plan to limit or even prevent absenteeism among your employees. Below, you will find how our approach can positively impact your team and organization.
Among employees, absenteeism is caused by work-related issues less than 20%* of the time. The remaining 80%, the majority, stems from personal circumstances such as medical reasons, chronic stress, or crises like bereavement, relationship problems, caregiving responsibilities, concerns about children, or other personal causes.
Not everyone is naturally equipped to handle major challenges effortlessly or prepared for illness, unexpected loss, or other crises. Chronic stress is detrimental to both health and job performance. Employees may feel overwhelmed by their situations, which can lead to prolonged absenteeism.
As an employer, you want to prevent employees from being absent for long periods under these circumstances. By offering specialized coaching in the form of medical coachingyou can help them increase their resilience and better cope with their personal challenges. This can prevent unnecessary absenteeism and ensure that your employees feel supported.
Therefore:
Create an inclusive, open culture within your organization.
Engage in timely conversations with your employees and do not leave them out in the cold.
How?
By adequately addressing the situation for everyone in three steps. This provides clarity and care for everyone.
Medical Coaching as your Guide to Reducing and Preventing Absenteeism: A 3-Step Plan
Step 1 – When Absenteeism Is Imminent
When an employee is frequently sick, it is important to show genuine interest and initiate a conversation. This makes the employee feel seen and heard, which can already make a significant difference. If necessary, you can enlist a medical coach to provide additional support.
Step 2 – Immediately After Reporting Sick
Don’t wait for the results of the company doctor. Immediately engage a medical coach to provide the employee with the right tools and guidance. This helps them to look forward positively and not be limited by their circumstances. A direct support trajectory is essential to prevent unnecessary long-term absenteeism and to promote a smooth return to work. This benefits not only the employee but also your company. Where necessary, we do this of course in consultation with the company doctor.
Step 3 – Criteria for Lasting Recovery
Absenteeism can arise from various causes. A medical coach looks beyond just the employee’s health and works together to find ways to ensure sustainable recovery. This may involve addressing underlying causes, such as personal issues, and developing an action plan to minimize the risk of recurrence. Together, we work towards a long-term solution.
In a three-month program – with extensions if necessary – the individual receives all the necessary help, time, and attention to process the issues at hand and to do what strengthens their resilience and restores their decisiveness.
So:
Let’s have a conversation to discuss what I can do for you as an employer. A presentation for your HR department is, of course, possible.
Contact me for more information or an appointment!
*Source: National Working Conditions Survey 2023
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