A job meets our basic human needs and boosts our happiness, giving us a sense of purpose and identity that makes life more fulfilling. When a serious injury or illness leads to the temporary loss of a job, it can be a physical, emotional and financial setback. That’s why the primary goal of Madonna’s work re-entry program is to empower patients to regain their independence and reintegrate into the workforce, ultimately enhancing their overall well-being.
Patients who are medically stable and can endure physical and occupational therapy for an extended period are eligible to participate in the work re-entry program. Madonna’s clinical team conducts a thorough evaluation of each patient to identify their specific needs and capabilities concerning work-related tasks. Based on this personalized assessment, Madonna’s interdisciplinary team creates a tailored return-to-work plan that focuses on developing cognitive, emotional, and physical skills to help them effectively manage workplace demands. Participants have the opportunity to practice tasks they might encounter in their jobs in a safe and secure environment, which can help build their confidence and competence.
“Most of our patients here are working individuals and have a strong desire to get back to work,” Jessica Virgil, MOT, OTR/L, CBIS, a Madonna occupational therapist, said. “It’s not even just getting them back to doing exactly what they were doing for work before, but seeing how they do with some of those higher-level cognitive abilities. For example, are they able to manage their time? As part of the program, we have them clock in and out at the volunteer office, so they also have to remember where that is and where to go with their pathfinding skills. We look for organization and problem-solving skills.”