Surgery Recovery Accommodation Letter Alberta
Returning to work after surgery requires careful planning to avoid re-injury and ensure a successful recovery. A workplace accommodation letter from a CPSA-registered physician outlines the specific modifications your employer must provide during your recovery period. This protects both your health and your employment rights under Alberta law.
Common Surgeries Requiring Workplace Accommodation
Almost any surgical procedure will require some level of workplace modification during recovery.
- Knee replacement or knee arthroscopy
- Hip replacement surgery
- Back surgery (discectomy, fusion, laminectomy)
- Shoulder surgery (rotator cuff repair, labrum repair)
- Carpal tunnel release surgery
- Hernia repair
- Abdominal surgery (appendectomy, gallbladder removal)
- Heart surgery or cardiac procedures
- Eye surgery (cataract, LASIK, retinal)
- Oral/jaw surgery
Gradual Return to Work Plans
Most surgical recoveries benefit from a phased return to full duties. Our accommodation letters can specify a graduated schedule.
- Week 1-2: Part-time hours (4-6 hours/day)
- Week 3-4: Full hours with modified duties
- Week 5-8: Gradual increase in physical demands
- Week 8+: Full duties with periodic check-ins
- Timeline adjusted based on your specific surgery and recovery
Physical Restrictions After Surgery
Your accommodation letter will specify clear physical restrictions based on your surgery type and recovery stage.
- Weight lifting restrictions (e.g., nothing over 10 lbs for 6 weeks)
- No prolonged standing or sitting (alternating required)
- No repetitive motions (typing, gripping, reaching)
- No driving or operating heavy machinery
- No climbing stairs or ladders
- No bending, twisting, or overhead reaching
Common Accommodations
- Graduated return-to-work schedule (part-time to full-time)
- Modified duties with specific weight/activity restrictions
- Ergonomic workstation setup
- Remote work during early recovery phase
- Reserved accessible parking
- Frequent breaks for movement and stretching
- Permission to attend physiotherapy during work hours
- Temporary reassignment to sedentary role
- No overtime or on-call requirements during recovery
- Elevator access and ground-floor workspace
How It Works
- Fill out our secure online form describing your situation and accommodation needs (5 minutes)
- A CPSA-registered Alberta physician reviews your request
- Your signed accommodation letter is delivered to your email same day
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I give my employer the accommodation letter?
Ideally 1-2 weeks before your planned return date. This gives your employer time to arrange modified duties, equipment, or schedule changes. For unexpected surgeries, provide the letter as soon as you know your return date.
Can my employer refuse to let me return with restrictions?
No. Refusing to accommodate surgical recovery restrictions is disability discrimination. Your employer must find ways to accommodate you, even if it means temporarily modifying your role.
What if my job is entirely physical and I cannot do any of it post-surgery?
Your employer must explore all options including temporary reassignment to a different role, administrative duties, or a phased return. Only if no accommodation is possible without undue hardship can they consider alternatives.
Do I need my surgeon to write the accommodation letter?
No. Any licensed physician can write an accommodation letter based on your surgical records and recovery status. MedLetter physicians are experienced in writing post-surgical accommodation letters that meet legal requirements.
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