4 years ago, I injured my right knee in a workplace accident. After several surgeries and physio I was advised by my orthopedic surgeon that my right knee would need a total knee replacement but due to my age (early fifties). It was advisable to put off the surgery until I was older. Pain medication worked, so I was able to return to work and continue my duties. 9 months ago my left knee started becoming more and more painful and I was unable to perform my duties at work. I had however several months of sick leave saved, so after scans an arthroscopy cleanout of my left knee was scheduled and performed and I was off work for approx. 6 months.
My arthroscopic surgeon advised that the injury to my left knee was probably because of over compensation to the injury on my right knee. I am ready to return to work. Have been cleared to return by my Orthopedic Surgeon and my GP but my employer now wants a Fitness-For-Duty Assessment performed by an Occupational Physician. I think this is a ploy to deny my return to my position and terminate my employment altogether. Can they do this? Any advice would be appreciated.
My arthroscopic surgeon advised that the injury to my left knee was probably because of over compensation to the injury on my right knee. I am ready to return to work. Have been cleared to return by my Orthopedic Surgeon and my GP but my employer now wants a Fitness-For-Duty Assessment performed by an Occupational Physician. I think this is a ploy to deny my return to my position and terminate my employment altogether. Can they do this? Any advice would be appreciated.