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Beerda DCE, Greidanus MA, de Rijk AE, de Wind A, Tamminga SJ, Schaafsma FG. The SME tool supporting employers of small- and medium-sized enterprises during the return to work of employees on long-term sick leave: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial and for a process evaluation. Trials 2024; 25:541. [PMID: 39152487 PMCID: PMC11328497 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-024-08383-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 08/06/2024] [Indexed: 08/19/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Returning to work after long-term sick leave can be challenging, particularly in small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) where support may be limited. Recognizing the responsibilities and challenges of SME employers, a web-based intervention (hereafter the SME tool) has been developed. The SME tool aims to enhance the employer's intention and ability to support the sick-listed employee. Based on the Self-Determination Theory, it is hypothesized that this intention is enhanced by intervening in the employer's autonomy, competences, and relatedness targeted at, e.g., communication with sick-listed employee, involvement of other stakeholders, and practical support. This is achieved by means of providing templates, communication videos, and information on legislation. This article describes the design of an effect and process evaluation of the SME tool. METHODS A randomized controlled trial (RCT) with a 6-month follow-up will be conducted with a parallel-group design with two arms: an intervention group and a control group. Sick-listed employees (≤ 8 weeks) of SMEs (≤ 250 employees) at risk of long-term sick leave and their employers will be recruited and randomly allocated as a dyad (1:1). Employers randomized to the intervention group receive unlimited access to the SME tool, while those in the control group will receive care as usual. The primary outcome is the satisfaction of the employee with the return to work (RTW) support provided by their employer. Secondary outcomes include social support, work performance, and quality of work life at the employee level and self-efficacy in providing RTW support at the employer level. Outcomes will be assessed using questionnaires at baseline and 1, 3, and 6 months of follow-up. Process evaluation measures include, e.g., recruitment and use of and perceived usefulness of the SME tool. Additionally, semi-structured interviews with employers, employees, and occupational physicians will explore the interpretation of the RCT results and strategies for the national implementation of the SME tool. DISCUSSION The SME tool is hypothesized to be valuable in addition to usual care helping employers to effectively support the RTW of their long-term sick-listed employees, by improving the employers' intention and ability to support. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT06330415. Registered on February 14, 2024.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donna C E Beerda
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
- Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Societal Participation & Health, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - Michiel A Greidanus
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Societal Participation & Health, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Angelique E de Rijk
- Department of Social Medicine, Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Research Institute Primary Care and Public Health (CAPHRI), Maastricht University, Duboisdomein 30, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Astrid de Wind
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Societal Participation & Health, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Sietske J Tamminga
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Societal Participation & Health, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Frederieke G Schaafsma
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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Bilodeau K, Gouin MM, Fadhlaoui A, Porro B. Supporting the return to work of breast cancer survivors: perspectives from Canadian employer representatives. J Cancer Surviv 2024; 18:1384-1392. [PMID: 37140676 PMCID: PMC10157121 DOI: 10.1007/s11764-023-01382-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
PUR POSE: A significant proportion of women with breast cancer want to RTW (return to work) after treatment. Employers play a key role in facilitating RTW for these employees who face distinct challenges. However, the portrait of these challenges remains to be documented from the perspective of employer representatives. The purpose of this article is to describe the perceptions of Canadian employer representatives regarding the management of the RTW of BCSs (breast cancer survivors). METHODS Thirteen qualitative interviews were conducted with representatives from businesses of various sizes (< 100 employees, 100-500 employees, > 500 employees). Transcribed data were subjected to iterative data analysis. RESULTS Three major themes emerged to describe employer representatives' perceptions of managing RTW of BCS. These are (1) providing tailored support; (2) remaining 'human' while managing RTW; and (3) facing the challenges of RTW management after breast cancer. The first two themes were perceived as facilitating RTW. The challenges identified concern uncertainty, communication with the employee, maintaining a supernumerary work position, balancing employee and organizational interests, reconciling with colleagues' complaints, and collaboration among stakeholders. CONCLUSIONS Employers can adopt a humanistic management style by offering flexibility and increased accommodation for BCS who RTW. They can also be more sensitive to this diagnosis, leading some to seek more information from those around them who have experienced it. Employers require increased awareness about diagnosis and side effects, be more confident to communicate, and improved collaboration between stakeholders to facilitate the RTW of BCS. IMPLICATIONS FOR CANCER SURVIVORS Employers who focus on the individual needs of cancer survivors during RTW can facilitate creative and personalized solutions for a sustainable RTW and help survivors recover their lives after cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karine Bilodeau
- University of Montreal, Montreal, Canada
- Research Centre of Maisonneuve-Rosemont Hospital, Montreal, Canada
| | | | - Asma Fadhlaoui
- Research Centre of Maisonneuve-Rosemont Hospital, Montreal, Canada
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Kuai B, Huang Y, Su X, Shi Y, Feng G, Hu L, Guo Y. The experiences and perceptions of employers on cancer survivors returning to work: a meta-synthesis of qualitative studies. Support Care Cancer 2024; 32:454. [PMID: 38913103 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-024-08637-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Employers play an important role in the return-to-work (RTW) of cancer survivors (CSs), and recently a substantial number of qualitative studies from the employers' perspective have emerged. This meta-synthesis aims to systematically review these qualitative studies regarding employers' experiences with CSs' RTW. METHODS Five electronic databases were searched from inception to January 2024 to identify the studies. Three researchers conducted quality assessment of included. Subsequent, we performed thematic integration of the included studies with the NVivo 11 software. RESULTS Thirteen qualitative studies were included, and 16 topics were finally extracted and summarized into seven categories to form three integrated themes: employers' perspective on facilitators and obstacles for CSs' RTW, employers' response including negative emotion and positive behavior, and employers' need resources from different aspects. CONCLUSION CSs' RTW is influenced by many factors; the support employers need is also extensive and complex. Employers need more support beyond healthcare.
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Affiliation(s)
- BenXin Kuai
- Medical School of Nantong University (School of Nursing), Nantong, 226001, Jiangsu, China
| | - YanJun Huang
- Medical School of Nantong University (School of Nursing), Nantong, 226001, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiaoqin Su
- Medical School of Nantong University (School of Nursing), Nantong, 226001, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yue Shi
- Medical School of Nantong University (School of Nursing), Nantong, 226001, Jiangsu, China
| | - Guojia Feng
- Medical School of Nantong University (School of Nursing), Nantong, 226001, Jiangsu, China
| | - Lanyue Hu
- Medical School of Nantong University (School of Nursing), Nantong, 226001, Jiangsu, China
| | - YuJie Guo
- Medical School of Nantong University (School of Nursing), Nantong, 226001, Jiangsu, China.
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Berkhout MA, Tamminga SJ, de Boer AGEM, Dewa CS, de Jong A, de Rijk AE, Greidanus MA. Pilot implementation of MiLES: a web-based intervention targeted at managers with the aim of enhancing the successful return to work of employees with cancer. Acta Oncol 2023; 62:765-773. [PMID: 37504953 DOI: 10.1080/0284186x.2023.2238886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND MiLES is a web-based intervention targeted at managers with the aim of enhancing the successful return to work (RTW) of employees with cancer. The purpose of this study was to identify barriers to and facilitators of implementing MiLES in organizations, from a manager's perspective. MATERIAL AND METHODS MiLES was implemented as a pilot in four organizations for six weeks. Sixteen managers were included, of which fourteen were interviewed regarding their perceived barriers to and facilitators of implementation of MiLES in their organization. Interviews were recorded, transcribed verbatim and analyzed with content analysis. RESULTS The managers experienced barriers to and facilitators of implementation related to: (1) implementation responsibilities, (2) the intervention's content, and (3) organizational characteristics. Regarding implementation responsibilities, management board approval and an organizational infrastructure with distinct described implementation responsibilities were perceived as facilitators. Regarding the intervention's content, its accessibility, user-friendliness and completeness were perceived as facilitators. If the content did not meet the manager's specific needs, this was perceived as a barrier. Regarding organizational characteristics, several intangible (e.g., added value of MiLES within different organizations) and tangible (e.g., integration into absenteeism registration) organizational characteristics were perceived as facilitators. The absence of a quiet place to use MiLES was perceived as barrier. CONCLUSION Implementation of MiLES in organizations may benefit from an infrastructure within the organization that defines responsibilities regarding intervention delivery to managers of employees with cancer. Such an infrastructure should be aligned to existing organizational structures. As per interviewed managers, MiLES has added value in diverse organizations.
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Affiliation(s)
- M A Berkhout
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Nursing Studies, University of Applied Sciences, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - S J Tamminga
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Public Health research institute, Societal Participation and Health, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - A G E M de Boer
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Public Health research institute, Societal Participation and Health, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Cancer treatment and Quality of life, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - C S Dewa
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences and Department of Public Health Sciences, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - A de Jong
- Department of Nursing Studies, University of Applied Sciences, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - A E de Rijk
- Department of Social Medicine, Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Primary Care and Public Health Research Institute (CAPHRI), Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - M A Greidanus
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Public Health research institute, Societal Participation and Health, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Harada A, Tateishi S, Ishimaru T, Nagata M, Eguchi H, Tsuji M, Ikegami K, Matsugaki R, Fujino Y. Association Between Types of Chronic Disease and Receiving Workplace Accommodations: A Cross-Sectional Study of Japanese Workers. J Occup Environ Med 2023; 65:93-97. [PMID: 36735620 DOI: 10.1097/jom.0000000000002723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to evaluate the association between the type of chronic disease and receiving workplace accommodations. METHODS This online cross-sectional study analyzed a self-reported questionnaire administered in Japan. A total of 6775 full-time workers who reported needing work accommodations were included. RESULTS Workplace accommodations were more likely to be provided for workers with cancer, mental illness, and benign gynecological disorders than for workers with no disease under treatment. In contrast, workplace accommodations were less likely for workers with low back pain and skin diseases. CONCLUSIONS Receiving workplace accommodations depends on the type of chronic disease. Chronic diseases for which workers frequently receive workplace accommodations may be those for which support is encouraged by law. It is necessary to support workers with chronic diseases that do not receive adequate workplace accommodations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arisa Harada
- From the Department of Occupational Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Japan, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka, Japan (Dr Harada, Dr Nagata); Disaster Occupational Health Center, Institute of Industrial Ecological Sciences, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Japan, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka, Japan (Dr Tateishi); Department of Environmental Epidemiology, Institute of Industrial Ecological Sciences, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Japan, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka, Japan (Dr Ishimaru, Dr Fujino); Department of Mental Health, Institute of Industrial Ecological Sciences, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Japan, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka, Japan (Dr Eguchi); Department of Environmental Health, School of Medicine, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Japan, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka, Japan (Dr Tsuji); Department of Work Systems and Health, Institute of Industrial Ecological Sciences, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Japan, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka, Japan (Dr Ikegami); and Department of Preventive Medicine and Community Health, School of Medicine, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Japan, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka, Japan (Dr Matsugaki)
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Chen B, Wang L, Li B, Liu W. Work stress, mental health, and employee performance. Front Psychol 2022; 13:1006580. [PMID: 36425815 PMCID: PMC9679506 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.1006580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 10/23/2023] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic outbreak-as a typical emergency event-significantly has impacted employees' psychological status and thus has negatively affected their performance. Hence, along with focusing on the mechanisms and solutions to alleviate the impact of work stress on employee performance, we also examine the relationship between work stress, mental health, and employee performance. Furthermore, we analyzed the moderating role of servant leadership in the relationship between work stress and mental health, but the result was not significant. The results contribute to providing practical guidance for enterprises to improve employee performance in the context of major emergencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Biao Chen
- School of Business, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Lu Wang
- School of Business, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Biao Li
- School of Business, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Weixing Liu
- Henan Research Platform Service Center, Zhengzhou, China
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7
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Porro B, Tamminga SJ, de Boer AGEM, Petit A, Roquelaure Y, Greidanus MA. Identification of actions to be taken by managers to facilitate the return to work of cancer survivors: Consensus between managers and cancer survivors. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:1905. [PMID: 36224592 PMCID: PMC9555691 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-14271-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Managers are considered to be main stakeholders in the return to work (RTW) of cancer survivors. However, the perspectives of cancer survivors and managers differ on what managerial actions should be taken during the RTW of cancer survivors. This difference might put effective collaboration and successful RTW at risk. Therefore, this study aims to reach consensus among managers and cancer survivors on the managerial actions to be taken during the four different RTW phases of cancer survivors (i.e., Disclosure, Treatment, RTW plan, Actual RTW). Methods The Technique for Research of Information by Animation of a Group of Experts (TRIAGE) was implemented with managers and cancer survivors (hereafter referred to as “experts”). An initial list of 24 actions was derived from a previous study. Firstly, for each action, fifteen experts were asked to indicate individually how important this action is per RTW phase (Likert scale from 1 – “Not important at all” to 6 – “Very important”). Consensus was reached when ≥ 80% (i.e., ≥ twelve experts) of the experts rated that action ≥5. Secondly, for each phase of the RTW process, the 15 actions with the highest percentage were discussed with eight experts during the collective consultation, except for the actions that already reached consensus. After discussion, the experts voted whether each action was important (“yes” / “no”) and consensus required ≥ 87.5% (i.e., ≥ seven experts) of the experts to consider an action as important. Results Twenty-five managerial actions were finally retained for at least one of the RTW phases, e.g., Disclosure: “respect privacy” and “radiate a positive attitude”, Treatment: “show appreciation” and “allow sufficient sick leave”, RTW Plan: “tailor” and “communicate”, and Actual RTW: “support practically” and “balance interest”. Conclusion Cancer survivors and managers reached consensus on the importance of 25 managerial actions, distributed into each phase of the RTW process. These actions should be considered an interplay of managerial actions by different stakeholders on the part of the employer (e.g., direct supervisor, HR-manager), and should be a responsibility that is shared by these stakeholders. The collective implementation of these actions within the company will help cancer survivors feel fully supported. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12889-022-14271-w.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Porro
- Univ. Angers, CHU Angers, Univ. Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, IRSET (Institut de Recherche en Santé, Environnement et Travail) - UMR_S 1085, SFR ICAT, F-49000, Angers, France.
| | - S J Tamminga
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Amsterdam Public Health research institute, Societal Participation & Health, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - A G E M de Boer
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Amsterdam Public Health research institute, Societal Participation & Health, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - A Petit
- Univ. Angers, CHU Angers, Univ. Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, IRSET (Institut de Recherche en Santé, Environnement et Travail) - UMR_S 1085, SFR ICAT, F-49000, Angers, France
| | - Y Roquelaure
- Univ. Angers, CHU Angers, Univ. Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, IRSET (Institut de Recherche en Santé, Environnement et Travail) - UMR_S 1085, SFR ICAT, F-49000, Angers, France
| | - M A Greidanus
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Amsterdam Public Health research institute, Societal Participation & Health, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Viseux M, Tamminga SJ, Greidanus MA, Porro B, Roquelaure Y, Bourdon M. Enhancing Emotional Skills of Managers to Support the Return to Work of Cancer Survivors: A Research Opinion Focusing on Value, Feasibility and Challenges. Front Psychol 2022; 13:910779. [PMID: 35903738 PMCID: PMC9319043 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.910779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Marie Viseux
- UMR INSERM 1246 SPHERE “Methods in Patient-Centered Outcomes and HEalth ResEarch”, Nantes University, University of Tours, Nantes, France
- *Correspondence: Marie Viseux
| | - Sietske J. Tamminga
- Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Societal Participation and Health, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Michiel A. Greidanus
- Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Societal Participation and Health, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Bertrand Porro
- University of Angers, University of Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, IRSET (Institut de Recherche en Santé, Environnement et Travail) - UMR_S 1085, SFR ICAT, Angers, France
| | - Yves Roquelaure
- UMR Inserm S 1085, EHESP, IRSET (Institut de Recherche en Santé, Environnement et Travail) – University of Angers, CHU Angers, University of Rennes, SFR ICAT, Angers, France
| | - Marianne Bourdon
- UMR INSERM 1246 SPHERE “Methods in Patient-Centered Outcomes and HEalth ResEarch”, Nantes University, University of Tours, Nantes, France
- Integrated Center for Oncology, Nantes, France
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Understanding Cancer Survivors’ Needs and Experiences Returning to Work Post-Treatment: A Longitudinal Qualitative Study. Curr Oncol 2022; 29:3013-3025. [PMID: 35621635 PMCID: PMC9139703 DOI: 10.3390/curroncol29050245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2022] [Revised: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: This study aimed to understand Canadian cancer survivors’ experiences during the return-to-work (RTW) process. Methods: A prospective qualitative longitudinal design was employed using the principles of phenomenological inquiry. Cancer survivors took part in three in-depth interviews: at the end of treatment, and 3 and 9 months after the first interview. Transcripts were analyzed using constant comparative analysis, guided by the Cancer and Work model. Results: A total of 38 in-depth interviews were conducted with 13 participants. The resultant themes were: (1) supports received or desired to enable RTW; (2) others’ limited understanding of the long-term impacts of a cancer diagnosis and its treatment; (3) worries and self-doubts about returning to work; and (4) changing perspectives on life and work after cancer. Conclusions: Cancer patients returning to work after treatment often experience challenges throughout the process, including varying levels of support from others and a range of ongoing effects and motivation to RTW. There is a clear gap in terms of the professional supports available to these individuals. Future research should focus on investigating how to improve both quality and accessibility of supports in a way that is personalized to the individual.
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Greidanus MA, de Rijk AE, de Boer AGEM, Bos MEMM, Plaisier PW, Smeenk RM, Frings-Dresen MHW, Tamminga SJ. A randomised feasibility trial of an employer-based intervention for enhancing successful return to work of cancer survivors (MiLES intervention). BMC Public Health 2021; 21:1433. [PMID: 34289828 PMCID: PMC8293550 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-021-11357-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2021] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Employers express a need for support during sickness absence and return to work (RTW) of cancer survivors. Therefore, a web-based intervention (MiLES) targeted at employers with the objective of enhancing cancer survivors' successful RTW has been developed. This study aimed to assess feasibility of a future definitive randomised controlled trial (RCT) on the effectiveness of the MiLES intervention. Also preliminary results on the effectiveness of the MiLES intervention were obtained. METHODS A randomised feasibility trial of 6 months was undertaken with cancer survivors aged 18-63 years, diagnosed with cancer < 2 years earlier, currently in paid employment, and sick-listed < 1 year. Participants were randomised to an intervention group, with their employer receiving the MiLES intervention, or to a waiting-list control group (2:1). Feasibility of a future definitive RCT was determined on the basis of predefined criteria related to method and protocol-related uncertainties (e.g. reach, retention, appropriateness). The primary effect measure (i.e. successful RTW) and secondary effect measures (e.g. quality of working life) were assessed at baseline and 3 and 6 months thereafter. RESULTS Thirty-five cancer survivors were included via medical specialists (4% of the initially invited group) and open invitations, and thereafter randomised to the intervention (n = 24) or control group (n = 11). Most participants were female (97%) with breast cancer (80%) and a permanent employment contract (94%). All predefined criteria for feasibility of a future definitive RCT were achieved, except that concerning the study's reach (90 participants). After 6 months, 92% of the intervention group and 100% of the control group returned to work (RR: 0.92, 95% CI: 0.81-1.03); no difference were found with regard to secondary effect measures. CONCLUSIONS With the current design a future definitive RCT on the effectiveness of the MiLES intervention on successful RTW of cancer survivors is not feasible, since recruitment of survivors fell short of the predefined minimum for feasibility. There was selection bias towards survivors at low risk of adverse work outcomes, which reduced generalisability of the outcomes. An alternative study design is needed to study effectiveness of the MiLES intervention. TRIAL REGISTRATION The study has been registered in the Dutch Trial Register ( NL6758/NTR7627 ).
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Affiliation(s)
- M A Greidanus
- Department Public and Occupational Health/ Coronel Institute of Occupational Health, Amsterdam Public Health research institute, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - A E de Rijk
- Department of Social Medicine, Care and Public Health Research Institute (CAPHRI), Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, Duboisdomein 30, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - A G E M de Boer
- Department Public and Occupational Health/ Coronel Institute of Occupational Health, Amsterdam Public Health research institute, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - M E M M Bos
- Department of Medical Oncology, Erasmus Medical Center, Doctor Molewaterplein 40, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - P W Plaisier
- Department of Surgery, Albert Schweitzer Hospital, Albert Schweitzerplaats 25, Dordrecht, The Netherlands
| | - R M Smeenk
- Department of Surgery, Albert Schweitzer Hospital, Albert Schweitzerplaats 25, Dordrecht, The Netherlands
| | - M H W Frings-Dresen
- Department Public and Occupational Health/ Coronel Institute of Occupational Health, Amsterdam Public Health research institute, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - S J Tamminga
- Department Public and Occupational Health/ Coronel Institute of Occupational Health, Amsterdam Public Health research institute, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Greidanus MA, de Rijk AE, Frings-Dresen MHW, Tiedtke CM, Brouwers S, de Boer AGEM, Tamminga SJ. The Use and Perceived Usefulness of an Online Toolbox Targeted at Employers (MiLES Intervention) for Enhancing Successful Return to Work of Cancer Survivors. JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL REHABILITATION 2021; 31:393-404. [PMID: 33090355 PMCID: PMC8172399 DOI: 10.1007/s10926-020-09929-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The MiLES intervention is a web-based intervention targeted at employers with the objective of enhancing successful return to work (RTW) of cancer survivors. The aim of this study is to gain insight into the employers' use and perceived usefulness of the MiLES intervention. METHODS Employer representatives (e.g. Human Resource managers and supervisors) were given access to the MiLES intervention, which contains, among others, interactive videos, conversation checklists and tailored tips. After six weeks, an online questionnaire gathered data on employers' use and the perceived usefulness of the intervention. In-depth qualitative data on these topics were gathered during semi-structured interviews, which were analyzed using a content analysis. RESULTS Thirty-one eligible employers were included. Twenty-two of them filled out the questionnaire and twenty were interviewed. Typically, employers used the intervention 2-3 times, for 26 min per visit. The usefulness of the intervention scored 7.6 out of 10 points, and all employers would recommend it to colleagues. Employers' use decreased when support needs were low and when the intervention did not correspond with their specific situation (e.g. complex reintegration trajectories). Employers perceived the intervention to be supporting and practically oriented. They appreciated the fact that the intervention was web-based and combined visual and textual content. The possibility of consulting specialized services for complex situations would further enhance its usefulness. CONCLUSION The MiLES intervention provides employers with a useful tool in their daily practice. Its effectiveness for enhancing employers' managerial skills and cancer survivors' successful RTW is subject for further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- M A Greidanus
- Department Public and Occupational Health/Coronel Institute of Occupational Health, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - A E de Rijk
- Department of Social Medicine, Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Research Institute Primary Care and Public Health (CAPHRI), Maastricht University, Duboisdomein 30, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - M H W Frings-Dresen
- Department Public and Occupational Health/Coronel Institute of Occupational Health, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - C M Tiedtke
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Centre for Environment & Health, KU Leuven, Kapucijnenvoer 35, Leuven, Belgium
| | - S Brouwers
- Department Public and Occupational Health/Coronel Institute of Occupational Health, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - A G E M de Boer
- Department Public and Occupational Health/Coronel Institute of Occupational Health, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - S J Tamminga
- Department Public and Occupational Health/Coronel Institute of Occupational Health, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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