Historically, Work Hardening has been a multidisciplinary approach with a high level of structure using work related equipment and tasks to replicate job demands for a return to work. Psychologists, PT, OT, Speech Therapists and any other applicable care providers worked with a team approach to facilitate a RTW. It is usually very intensive-up to a 40 hr. work week in the clinic. This is pretty much not provided anymore-as reimbursement is not available. Work Hardening uses work simulation as the primary component.

Work Conditioning is much less intensive and does not include the same team approach. Usually one practitioner (PT or OT-or even an ATC, depending upon state laws) may govern an individual as they use work specific simulations, often with similar tools as in the workplace, with a goal of a RTW. Although these terms are often used interchangeably, they are much different in cost. Some structure is incorporated, but not as much as WH. Work conditioning uses exercise, aerobic conditioning, education and limited work tasks.

What most other clinics out there are doing is more like a therapeutic activity-ride the bike, push the sled, lift the boxes-and the person get's lost in the shuffle with the other patients in the clinic. The key distinction is the transition from patient (passive) to worker (active). The IDC 9 code for Work Conditioning (first two hours) is 97750. There is a subsequent code for each additional hour. Hope this is what you were looking to have answered.