Abstract
Using data from a large-scale randomized controlled trial conducted in Danish job centers,
this paper investigates the effects of an intensification of mandatory return-to-work activities
on the subsequent labor market outcomes for sick-listed workers. Using variations in local
treatment strategies, both between job centers and between randomly assigned treatment
and control groups within a given job center, we compare the relative effectiveness of
alternative interventions. Our results show that the use of partial sick leave increases the
length of time spent in regular employment and non-reliance on benefits, and also reduces
the time spent in unemployment. Traditional active labor market programs and the use of
paramedical care appear to have no effect at all, or even an adverse effect.