Maritime Life is launching ProAct, a disability management program designed to help employers cope with the effects of rising short-term disability absences and costs.

The comprehensive plan addresses both the medical and non-medical issues that may be causing recurring work absences or impeding an employee’s successful return-to-work.

Under the program, disability case managers establish a relationship with each individual as soon as possible after an absence is reported. Employees are actively engaged in planning their return to work and are encouraged to focus on their capabilities and work readiness rather than their illness or injury.

Where warranted, professionally facilitated meetings between the employee and their manager are arranged to discuss and resolve any work-related issues that may be impacting the return to work. These meetings are conducted by qualified facilitators provided through Maritime Life’s service partner FGI, which offers employee effectiveness programs.

“Disability absences impact not only the health of the individuals involved, they also affect employers, their colleagues and customers in many ways. Employers are searching for solutions to help create healthier, more productive work environments. We believe ProAct is a viable solution,” said Mike McMurray, manager, product management and research, in a release.