Nearly 90 percent of Suva policyholders return to work after an accident

All it takes is a split second: a stumble, a moment of distraction, or an unforeseen event—and an accident has already happened. The road back to everyday life and work can be long and arduous. Studies show that the chances of returning to work are cut in half after six months of being unable to work. Early reintegration is therefore crucial.

Nearly one in two accidents results in time off work

Last year, Suva recorded nearly 480,000 accidents. Nearly one in two accidents resulted in an inability to work for more than three days. The average duration of incapacity was 44 days. About 78 percent of those injured were able to return to work within three months. 29,000 people—equivalent to 6 percent—were injured so severely that they were unable to work for three months or longer. Accidents involving tripping and falling, resulting in injuries to the knees, shoulders, ankles, or back, were particularly common.

Early and Comprehensive Support

Suva implements various measures to help people who have been in accidents return to their daily lives and work. In cases of serious injuries, prolonged absences from work, and an uncertain professional future, Suva’s case management team steps in: Throughout the entire recovery process, case managers coordinate medical treatment, the necessary steps for returning to work, and collaboration with treating physicians, employers, and other social insurance providers. A total of 2,400 people received support through Case Management last year. The Suva clinics in Bellikon and Sion, which specialize in rehabilitation following serious accidents and vocational reintegration, also play a key role.

The vast majority of people were able to return to work: 88 percent of Suva policyholders were able to return to work after a serious accident. The reintegration rate has remained consistently high for years.

Back at Work—A Win for Everyone

«In addition to prevention efforts and the insurance business, the reintegration of accident victims into the workforce is a key priority for Suva,» says Barbara Ingold, Head of Claims Settlement at Suva. «Successful reintegration benefits everyone: Those affected regain their quality of life and financial security; companies retain their employees; and lower daily benefit and pension costs ease the burden on the premium system—ultimately benefiting all insured individuals.» Individuals are considered to have been successfully reintegrated if they return to their previous job or a new one and require no disability pension—or only a small one of less than 20 percent.

One's personal environment supports the healing process

In addition to successful medical treatment and professional care, support from family, friends, employers, and coworkers is also crucial to the healing process. Phone calls, visits, understanding in the workplace, and positive conversations give those affected strength and confidence.

Former professional athlete and bobsledder Sandro Michel knows from personal experience just how important this support is after a serious accident. After a training crash on the ice track in February 2024, his life hung by a thread. Several emergency surgeries saved his life, followed by a long road back to his personal and professional life. During this difficult time, he was always able to count on his family, friends, his employer, and Suva. «I am incredibly grateful for the support of everyone around me. Without all these people, I wouldn’t be where I am today,» Sandro Michel says with conviction.

«Just being there helps. No matter what.»

Sandro Michel’s story is part of Suva’s current reintegration campaign, «Being there helps. No matter what.» It shows how family members, employers, and coworkers can support people who have been in accidents as they return to everyday life and the workplace. The campaign will run through the end of September on TV, in print and online media, and on social media.

Source: www.suva.ch