Cost-Consequence Analysis of Return to Work (RTW) Program for Workers with Disabilities in Indonesia: Health, Economic and Productivity Outcomes

Purpose : This study aims to address the challenge of Return To Work program by evaluating the cost consequences of the implementation of RTW program. Therefore, the principal research question is whether the RTW program produces better health outcomes, health costs, and productivity loss compared to standard care. Methods : A retrospective observational study was conducted by using occupational injury claims from 2012 to August 2022. The study included 11,955 claims, with 1,353 identified as RTW cases and 10,602 as non-RTW cases. Outcome measures included Lost Time Injury Days (LTIDs), the RTW rates, and the efficiency of medical care expenses. A cost-consequence analysis was performed to assess the economic and productivity impact. Results: There was a significant difference between the RTW and non-RTW groups in terms of LTIDs (p < 0.001) and labor market outcomes (p < 0.001). The RTW program showed higher initial costs ($822.50 per case vs $262.25) but demonstrated superior economic efficiency over time due to reduced lost workdays (350.3 vs 214.1 days) and lower long-term productivity loss costs ($46,239.60 vs $28,261.20). Conclusion : The Return To Work (RTW) program works to reintegrate workers into the workforce while also providing significant economic benefit. Future studies could also analyze how productivity growth differs across geographical regions.