Yuba City Council Approves Ready Rebound Program for First Responder Wellness

Yuba City Council has taken a significant step towards enhancing the health and wellness of its first responders by approving a three-year contract with Ready Rebound, a specialized organization aimed at improving recovery times for injured personnel. The council unanimously voted to authorize the interim city manager to finalize the agreement, which is expected to cost approximately $184,000 over the contract period.

The Ready Rebound program is designed to provide structured support for first responders recovering from injuries, whether work-related or not. This voluntary benefit will be available to employees, their dependents, and retirees, allowing them to access health care navigation assistance through a dedicated hotline. The program promises to expedite recovery, with participants typically returning to duty 9 to 12 weeks faster than through traditional recovery methods.

During the meeting, Robert Bender, the interim city manager, highlighted the pressing need for such a program, citing the high physical and mental demands placed on first responders. He noted the challenges they face in accessing timely and quality care due to a shortage of treating physicians in the Yuba Sutter area. The council discussed the financial implications of the program, emphasizing that while the cost is significant, the potential savings from reduced overtime and improved employee health could outweigh the initial investment.

Data presented during the meeting revealed that over the past five years, Yuba City has experienced 108 workers' compensation claims from its fire and police departments, with an average cost of $38,000 per claim. The lengthy recovery times have resulted in substantial overtime expenses, prompting the council to seek innovative solutions like Ready Rebound.

Eric Gerhardt, representing Ready Rebound, expressed confidence in the program's ability to make a meaningful impact on the lives of first responders. He assured the council that the service would integrate seamlessly with existing workflows and would be available to all employees, regardless of when their injuries occurred.

The council's decision to adopt this program reflects a commitment to the well-being of its first responders and aims to foster a healthier, more efficient workforce. As Yuba City moves forward with the implementation of Ready Rebound, the community can expect improved support for those who serve and protect them.