There is substantial evidence to support the positive link between work and health (physical, mental and social health). Both employment and income are separate determinants of health and are used as health status indicators. Absence from work contributes to declining health, slower recovery times, and longer duration of disability. Maintaining and restoring working capacity is an important function of health services which improves function and can also impact upon recovery and prognosis. Supporting unnecessary restrictions or total disability (absence from work) creates disability which in turn negatively impacts upon health. When asked to provide an opinion on functional abilities to employers or insurers, the focus should be on abilities; restrictions should be objective, specific, and listed only when absolutely medically indicated.
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