Why SO long to get back in service?

[RailGrinder]

Everyone seems to have a problem once recalled to get back to real work. What steps should I take to get to work sooner? The number they gave me to call for a physical set an appointment up for 12 days later. I said that was unacceptable. I told the very nice girl "You do realize this is to get back to work, to start making money right?" . I told her I would drive farther if another place could get me in sooner. So I have one for 8 days sooner than original. But some recalled are still not on a turn after 2 weeks after the physical. One told me he has been fighting with medical for 10 days. What is the hold up, the drug test or what?

[jonnyseeandoh]

I was released by my neurosurgeon, after breaking my back and assorted ribs, for the 7th, Tuesday coming, and the company witch doctor decided to second guess her by making me take a functional capacity evaluation. Like am I yet fit to sit behind the throttle for twelve hours? The closest appt I could get for that inquisition is the 15th, so I would miss yet more work for even if I pass that thing and the witch doctor says I can mark up, I still would have to wait for the next bid cycle to be awarded a job. My LC has involved the General Chairman, and here's hoping. We already know that this has nothing to do with my health or ability and is meant to inflict financial damage since my disability benefits end the 7th. And they want me to actually beg for my job. Bullshit.

So anyway, what should you do? When I find out I will tell you first of everyone.

[throttle]

Each railroad seems to be different.
In todays case, you have the medical department that must clear you and from what I've seen with guys around here, you have NO RUSH. There is no rush to get you back to work, there is no rush to push your papers through. There is also a policy that if anything isn't of the "norm" then you are red flagged which can take much longer as other people will review your case file before hand. And if you have anything that is really off from the norm then its handled via a "medical lawyer". No, not a doctor!

So, to answer your question. I doubt you can push it through any faster then you are!

[RailGrinder]

Called back on 2nd, physical on the 8th, cleared by medical on 15th. So far 13 days, not horrible, but not great either.

[jonnyseeandoh]

I am marking up. Physical therapist put me on rack and attempted to draw and quarter, and when I did not come apart, I was OK'd to go. Have to do book of rules tomorrow, and bid system will award me a job effective Saturday.

[eight3six]

Good to hear you're getting back, have fun with that book of rules!

[sameguy]

What RR do you slave for? I wasn't aware that we had to take a physical before returning to work. On BNSF I had to do a hearing test (since I hadn't done one for 3 years) and I think I may have to take a refresh rules test but thats it.

[jonnyseeandoh]

Originally Posted by sameguy

What RR do you slave for? I wasn't aware that we had to take a physical before returning to work. On BNSF I had to do a hearing test (since I hadn't done one for 3 years) and I think I may have to take a refresh rules test but thats it.

I was out close to 100 days and did not have to do a physical unless that functional capacity eval counted for same. I have to recertify next year so a physical then is a certainty.

[theseatontheleft]

After four days of calling people at CSX I finally got an appointment for my return to work medical. Been furloughed for almost 6 months, after being off 90 days I think it's required, just checking eyes and ears, and urine sample from what I hear. Can't hold work at my home terminal, but I can finally go to another and hold work

[jonnyseeandoh]

Any work is good work these days, good luck!