WorkStrong Program
The WorkStrong program is a University of California systemwide program developed with the expertise and collaborative support of UC staff in wellness programs, occupational health, and workers’ compensation. It is designed to promote recovery and prevent future workplace injuries.
Here in UC Davis Health, the program enrolled its first participant in October 2011. To join the program, the medical provider from Employee Health Services could recommend an employee for the program or there is a referral generated by Sedgwick, the University’s Workers' Compensation Third Party Administrator. WorkStrong is provided at no cost to the participant and no part of the program is mandatory. Currently, a participant may choose to enroll in one, or all, of the following offerings: fitness training, nutrition counseling and daily life counseling. This program provides continuity of care for employees that have been injured on the job and is designed to fit the specific needs of an individual. The overall goal is to improve an individual’s overall health and wellness.
What we offer
A message from our Employee Health Services medical director:
“The Work Strong program is a unique opportunity for injured workers to enhance their recovery and to invest in their overall health and wellness through a comprehensive approach with skilled professionals and at no cost. As an Occupational medicine physician, I am thrilled to offer such a program to my patients as I believe that prevention is always better than cure and hope they will find it to be an added tool for ensuring a longer term and sustainable recovery following their injuries.”
Enass Awad Arahman, MD, MPH, FACOEM
Medical Director, Employee Health Services
UC Davis Health
Fitness and Post Rehabilitation Training
Certified trainers establish a customized program for each participant designed to promote recovery from injury and/or promote better overall fitness. It also includes coaching on injury prevention strategies, tailored exercises, and fitness improvement.
Nutrition Sessions
One-on-one consultation and counseling sessions with a registered dietitian to assess current diet and eating habits and offer suggestions and strategies for individual nutrition goals and living a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet.
Wellness 360°
Provides education and support focusing on issues that can affect health, psychological well-being, and chronic pain. Participants learn about behavior change, pacing activities, stress management, mood issues, anger management and communication and conflict resolution. Participants focus on their own goals aimed at making positive changes in behaviors.
Gym Membership
Includes a 6-month gym membership at the UCDHS Fitness Center located at 2501 Stockton Blvd., Sacramento, CA 95817.
Testimonials
“After receiving physical therapy services from another provider, my doctor recommended the WorkStrong Program for a lower back injury. My WorkStrong Program plan consisted of two components: physical training and psychological support. After four months of physical training, my lower back feels stronger than ever. I strongly recommend the WorkStrong Program to any UC employee injured on the job. Thank you Van and Kaye for all of your support and guidance!”
Misael Chavarin, Community Education Specialist
Trauma Prevention & Outreach Program, UC Davis Health System
“The WorkStrong program is a hidden gem at UC Davis. Really helped me to gain better sense of how to destress and how to set priorities to include exercise regularly.”
Dr. Frank Ing, M.D., F.A.C.C., M.S.C.A.I., Chief, Division of Pediatric Cardiology
Codirector, UC Davis Pediatric Heart Center, Professor of Pediatrics
“I am at the best shape of my life and that is not an exaggeration at all. When I started I was an avid runner but started the program after injuring my back at work. During the program I learned to build my strength and lost weight while toning up as well!”
Fabiola Harden
Echocardiography Lab, UC Davis Health
Who do we partner with?
To ensure the utmost efficiency and effectivity of the program, we collaborate extensively with our partners, including Employee Health Services, Health Management and Education Department, PM&R Therapies, UCDHS Fitness Center, UC Davis Health Worker’s Compensation and Ergonomics Department and Sedgwick, with support from the University of California, Office of the President (UCOP) Risk Services.
