An examiner cut off temporary disability based on a doctor's return-to-work date but the employee returns later. What is the proper action to verify the return-to-work date?

• A. call the doctor's office and verify the return to work date
• B. pay benefits
• C. call the employer and verify the return to work date
• D. request authorization to pay benefits

Answer: (A)

Verifying the actual return-to-work date comes from the treating physician, who determines medical clearance. When temporary disability benefits are cut off based on that doctor’s date but the employee returns later, the correct step is to call the doctor’s office to confirm the true return-to-work date and obtain any updated medical certification. This ensures benefits align with the employee’s current medical status and helps avoid overpayments or gaps in coverage. Checking with the employer may give non-medical information, and paying or seeking authorization to pay without medical confirmation risks improper payments.