Introduction and overview: Early systematic psychosocial matched care > Importance of biopsychosocial management in workers' compensation

Research shows that people with compensable injuries often have worse outcomes compared to those with similar non-compensable injuries.[9] Psychosocial barriers such as uncertainty, lack of control and relationship breakdown can develop and grow over the life of a claim. Psychosocial barriers are as influential in psychological injury as in physical injury.[6]

Integrating a biopsychosocial approach in workers' compensation systems provides a way of addressing these complex issues. This model looks at the whole person and considers the physical, psychological and social factors that affect recovery and return to work. This approach acknowledges that different factors impact recovery at different times and requires flexible, personalised intervention strategies.

Various factors can affect a person's ability to return to work after an injury or illness. For instance, a worker may experience heightened worry or anxiety about their situation and future. This could stem from concerns about their workplace (such as how they'll be received upon return) or from other aspects of their life (like financial pressures or family responsibilities). Some people may doubt their ability to cope with the challenges of returning to work, fearing they won't be able to manage their duties or keep up with expectations. Others may be confused by conflicting advice about their rehabilitation given by healthcare providers.

All of these concerns contribute to what we call distress — a state of emotional difficulty or suffering that can significantly impact recovery and return to work. Screening for psychosocial factors is essentially about trying to identify signs of this distress.