The process is a collaborative effort involving the employee, employer(often HR or a designated coordinator), medical professionals (such an occupational therapist), and maybe the insurer (like the Compensation Fund in South Africa for job-related injuries) work together to complete the procedure.

Key steps include:

Early Intervention and Communication: The first step in the procedure is for the employee to notify their employer as soon as possible about their problem. To understand the needs of the employee and establish clear expectations, open and consistent communication is essential.

Medical Assessment: To ascertain the employee's abilities, limitations, and a safe return date, a healthcare professional (such as a physician or occupational therapist) performs an evaluation. Any limitations or recommendations are frequently listed in a medical certificate.

Develop a Personalised Plan: A gradual, step-by-step return procedure is outlined in an individualized RTW plan. This plan outlines adjusted responsibilities, flexible scheduling, equipment or workplace modifications that are required, and continuing assistance.

Implement and Monitor: The worker goes back to work as scheduled. Both the employer and the worker keep a close eye on each other's progress, checking in often to make sure the task is acceptable and the worker is adjusting. When the employee's health improves, the plan is modified.

Review and Completion: The person finally returns to their full pre-injury/illness tasks or is assigned to a permanent, adequately accommodating alternate function once the plan is revised as needed.