Canada Life Group Insurance has expanded its Group Income Protection (GIP) Early Intervention Service (EIS) to cover over 320,000 additional employees.
The insurer said the service, first piloted in 2008, will be available to all employers, regardless of scheme size, from 3rd February 2014.
This could result in an additional 4,450 employers opting to use the service, allowing up to 328,000 more employees to receive an increased level of support, Canada Life said.
Canada Life's EIS addresses the problems of long-term workplace absence by intervening at the very early stages, usually after a 2-4 week continuous period away.
Previously, organisations were required to have an annual premium of over £300,000 before they could use the service, although smaller employers were considered if their risk profile was suitable.
Canada Life Group Insurance analysis of 2013 data showed only one in five EIS referrals (20.3%) subsequently go into the claims assessment process.
Mike Newcombe, director of claims management services, at Canada Life Group Insurance said: "This service explores all possibilities for rehabilitation and looks for the most appropriate way to facilitate a return to work. By working closely with employers and employees, we are able to formulate the best possible solution for all involved.
"The benefits of supporting employees in difficult circumstances and enabling their return to work should not be underestimated. It is highly valued by employers and employees alike.
Paul Avis, marketing director at Canada Life Group Insurance, said:
"Empirical evidence suggests that EIS helps to get people back to work earlier, whilst increasing claims acceptance rates. This enables us to offer sustainable, appropriate GIP pricing for organisations."
He continued: "SMEs in particular often have limited access to any form of occupational health. Being able to call on the support of our skilled rehabilitation consultants after 2-4 weeks of absence will be of great value to employers and employees alike."
