The Medical Return to Duty Access Process: Helping CAF members move forward

The Medical Return to Duty Access Process: Helping CAF members move forward

April 27, 2026 - Defence Stories

Estimated read time - 2:19

Occupational therapy is playing an increasingly important role in helping Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) members recover from injury and safely return to duty (RTD). As the Canadian Forces Health Services Group (CF H Svcs Gp) continues to strengthen RTD pathways, the newly launched Medical Return to Duty Access Process (MRtDAP) is improving members' access to timely, coordinated rehabilitation services. Through this process, CAF members who have suffered an injury that resulted in occupational medical employment limitations (MELs) lasting longer than 30 days will have increased access to occupational therapists (OTs) and the supports they need to RTD quickly and safely.

OTs support members by assessing how their condition affects everyday activities, work tasks, and overall functional capacity. OTs are often consulted for equipment such as wheelchairs or assistive devices, but their role extends far beyond this. OTs first focus on everyday skills. For example, following a hip surgery, an OT works with the member to evaluate their ability to shower safely, dress independently, and move confidently. Using this information, OTs provide rehabilitation supports and practical recommendations that help members progressively build the functional abilities required for a safe return to work. Once the member recovers and demonstrates independence in daily activities, the OT then evaluates work-related abilities and helps them gradually resume occupational duties.

Since the launch of the MRtDAP in October 2025, OTs are now being engaged earlier and more consistently to support members' recovery and safe return to duty. Members who benefit most from this program are those who have suffered neuromusculoskeletal (NMSK) injuries. NMSK injuries commonly result in occupational MELs and require in-depth assessments. MRtDAP now ensures that members with MELs from NMSK injuries lasting longer than 30 days are referred to in-garrison occupational therapy for the support they need.

Once referred, OTs work with the member to conduct structured assessments and activity-based evaluations that consider physical ability, perception, cognition, and the interaction between these factors in real-world environments. This may include standardized testing, simulated work tasks in the clinic, or direct observation in the member's actual workplace. Then, by comparing current abilities to job demands, OTs can recommend an appropriate progression of occupational MELs to ensure that RTD decisions are evidence based and aligned with operational requirements, while supporting the member's safety, well-being, and long-term function.

Through MRtDAP, the CAF is strengthening how injured members are supported, ensuring RTD decisions are informed by functional evidence, aligned with operational requirements, and focused on long-term performance and safety. By engaging OTs earlier and more consistently, the CAF is not only supporting recovery but reinforcing readiness and resilience across the force.

If you have any questions about occupational therapy or the Medical Return to Duty Access Process, please contact your healthcare provider.