1
|
Villotti P, Kordsmeyer AC, Roy JS, Corbière M, Negrini A, Larivière C. Systematic review and tools appraisal of prognostic factors of return to work in workers on sick leave due to musculoskeletal and common mental disorders. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0307284. [PMID: 39018306 PMCID: PMC11253986 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0307284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/19/2024] Open
Abstract
With the overall objective of providing implication for clinical and research practices regarding the identification and measurement of modifiable predicting factors for return to work (RTW) in people with musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) and common mental disorders (CMDs), this study 1) systematically examined and synthetized the research evidence available in the literature on the topic, and 2) critically evaluated the tools used to measure each identified factor. A systematic search of prognostic studies was conducted, considering four groups of keywords: 1) population (i.e., MSDs or CMDs), 2) study design (prospective), 3) modifiable factors, 4) outcomes of interest (i.e., RTW). Studies showing high risk of bias were eliminated. Tools used to measure prognostic factors were assessed using psychometric and usability criteria. From the 78 studies that met inclusion criteria, 19 (for MSDs) and 5 (for CMDs) factors reaching moderate or strong evidence were extracted. These factors included work accommodations, RTW expectations, job demands (physical), job demands (psychological), job strain, work ability, RTW self-efficacy, expectations of recovery, locus of control, referred pain (back pain), activities as assessed with disability questionnaires, pain catastrophizing, coping strategies, fears, illness behaviours, mental vitality, a positive health change, sleep quality, and participation. Measurement tools ranged from single-item tools to multi-item standardized questionnaires or subscales. The former generally showed low psychometric properties but excellent usability, whereas the later showed good to excellent psychometric properties and variable usability. The rigorous approach to the selection of eligible studies allowed the identification of a relatively small set of prognostic factors, but with a higher level of certainty. For each factor, the present tool assessment allows an informed choice to balance psychometric and usability criteria.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Patrizia Villotti
- Department of Education and Pedagogy–Career Counseling, Université du Québec à Montréal, Montréal, Canada
- Centre de recherche de l’Institut universitaire en santé mentale de Montréal, Montréal, Canada
| | - Ann-Christin Kordsmeyer
- Institute for Occupational and Maritime Medicine (ZfAM), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg, Germany
| | - Jean-Sébastien Roy
- School of Rehabilitation Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, Canada
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Rehabilitation and Social Integration, Quebec, Rehabilitation Institute, Quebec City, Canada
| | - Marc Corbière
- Department of Education and Pedagogy–Career Counseling, Université du Québec à Montréal, Montréal, Canada
- Centre de recherche de l’Institut universitaire en santé mentale de Montréal, Montréal, Canada
| | - Alessia Negrini
- Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail, Montréal, Canada
| | - Christian Larivière
- Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail, Montréal, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Hrairi A, Sellami I, Rmadi N, Haddar A, Loukil M, Triki L, Masmoudi ML, Hammami KJ, Hajjaji M. Impact of biomechanical exposure (job-exposure matrix 'MADE') and social support on return to work following occupational injuries. Injury 2024; 55:111733. [PMID: 39067269 DOI: 10.1016/j.injury.2024.111733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2024] [Accepted: 07/14/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To identify the determinants that influence the outcome of the return to work (RTW) after occupational injuries. METHODS We conducted a cross-sectional study at the National Health Insurance Fund of Tunisia among victims of occupational injuries. Individual and professional factors have been evaluated through a face-to-face questionnaire for ten months. Biomechanical exposure was estimated by the job-exposure matrix "MADE" and social support by the Social Support Scale. Along with descriptive statistics, we used bivariate analysis, binary logistic regression, and random forest. RESULTS We included 199 injured workers aged 20-60 years (mean = 42.73; 79.9 % male).Of the 199 injured workers, 39.7 % had unsuccessful RTW. Low social support, biomechanical exposure, blue-collar workers, working long hours, and severe injuries were associated with an unsuccessful return to work. In the variable importance plot issued from the random forest model, low social support at work was the most important risk factor of an unsuccessful RTW, followed by MADE variables: repetitiveness and effort. CONCLUSION Biomechanical exposure and social support are main influencers of the return-to-work process.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anouare Hrairi
- Department of Occupational Medicine, Hedi Chaker Hospital, Sfax University, BP3000, Tunisia.
| | - Imen Sellami
- Department of Occupational Medicine, Hedi Chaker Hospital, Sfax University, BP3000, Tunisia
| | - Nehla Rmadi
- Department of Occupational Medicine, Hedi Chaker Hospital, Sfax University, BP3000, Tunisia
| | - Aicha Haddar
- Department of Occupational Medicine, Hedi Chaker Hospital, Sfax University, BP3000, Tunisia
| | - Mouna Loukil
- Medical Department, Caisse Nationale d'Assurance Maladie of Sfax, Sfax University, BP3000, Tunisia
| | - Lotfi Triki
- Medical Department, Caisse Nationale d'Assurance Maladie of Sfax, Sfax University, BP3000, Tunisia
| | - Mohamed L Masmoudi
- Department of Occupational Medicine, Hedi Chaker Hospital, Sfax University, BP3000, Tunisia
| | - Kaouthar Jmal Hammami
- Department of Occupational Medicine, Hedi Chaker Hospital, Sfax University, BP3000, Tunisia
| | - Mounira Hajjaji
- Department of Occupational Medicine, Hedi Chaker Hospital, Sfax University, BP3000, Tunisia
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Lewis I, Houdmont J. "I'm pulling through because of you": injured workers' perspective of workplace factors supporting return to work under the Saskatchewan Workers' Compensation Board scheme. FRONTIERS IN REHABILITATION SCIENCES 2024; 5:1373888. [PMID: 38560027 PMCID: PMC10978658 DOI: 10.3389/fresc.2024.1373888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2024] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Background Research demonstrates sustained return to work (RTW) by individuals on medical leave is influenced by personal and job resources and job demands. Relatively few studies have been conducted in the workers' compensation context that is known to have longer absence durations for RTW. Aims This study sought to illuminate workers' experience as they returned to work following a work injury that was either psychological in nature or involved more than 50 days of disability, with a focus on the co-worker, supervisor, and employer actions that supported their return. Methods Workers in Saskatchewan, Canada, with a work-related psychological or musculoskeletal injury, subsequent disability, and who returned to work in the last three years, were invited to complete an online survey comprising of free-text questions. Thematic analysis was used to explore participants' experiences. Results Responses from 93 individuals were analysed. These revealed that persistent pain, emotional distress, and loss of normal abilities were present during and beyond returning to work. Almost two-thirds indicated that the supervisors' and co-workers' support was critical to a sustained return to work: their needs were recognized and they received autonomy and support to manage work demands. By contrast, one-third indicated that the support they expected and needed from supervisors and employers was lacking. Conclusions Workers returning to work lacked personal resources but co-workers' and supervisors' support helped improve confidence in their ability to RTW. Supervisors and employers should acknowledge workers' experiences and offer support and autonomy. Likewise, workers can expect challenges when returning to work and may benefit from cultivating supportive relationships with co-workers and supervisors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ian Lewis
- Lewis Health Management Consulting Inc., Regina, SK, Canada
| | - Jonathan Houdmont
- School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Chokka P, Bender A, Brennan S, Ahmed G, Corbière M, Dozois DJA, Habert J, Harrison J, Katzman MA, McIntyre RS, Liu YS, Nieuwenhuijsen K, Dewa CS. Practical pathway for the management of depression in the workplace: a Canadian perspective. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1207653. [PMID: 37732077 PMCID: PMC10508062 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1207653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Major depressive disorder (MDD) and other mental health issues pose a substantial burden on the workforce. Approximately half a million Canadians will not be at work in any week because of a mental health disorder, and more than twice that number will work at a reduced level of productivity (presenteeism). Although it is important to determine whether work plays a role in a mental health condition, at initial presentation, patients should be diagnosed and treated per appropriate clinical guidelines. However, it is also important for patient care to determine the various causes or triggers including work-related factors. Clearly identifying the stressors associated with the mental health disorder can help clinicians to assess functional limitations, develop an appropriate care plan, and interact more effectively with worker's compensation and disability programs, as well as employers. There is currently no widely accepted tool to definitively identify MDD as work-related, but the presence of certain patient and work characteristics may help. This paper seeks to review the evidence specific to depression in the workplace, and provide practical tips to help clinicians to identify and treat work-related MDD, as well as navigate disability issues.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pratap Chokka
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Alberta, Grey Nuns Hospital, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Ash Bender
- Work, Stress and Health Program, The Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Stefan Brennan
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Saskatchewan, Royal University Hospital, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Ghalib Ahmed
- Department of Family Medicine and Psychiatry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Marc Corbière
- Department of Education, Career Counselling, Université du Québec à Montréal, Centre de Recherche de l’Institut Universitaire en Santé Mentale de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - David J. A. Dozois
- Department of Psychology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - Jeff Habert
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - John Harrison
- Metis Cognition Ltd., Kilmington, United Kingdom; Centre for Affective Disorders, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College, London, United Kingdom; Alzheimercentrum, AUmc, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Martin A. Katzman
- START Clinic for the Mood and Anxiety Disorders, Toronto, ON, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, Northern Ontario School of Medicine, and Department of Psychology, Lakehead University, Thunder Bay, ON, Canada
| | - Roger S. McIntyre
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Yang S. Liu
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Karen Nieuwenhuijsen
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Coronel Institute of Occupational Health, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Carolyn S. Dewa
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Sciences, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Sears JM, Edmonds AT, MacEachen E, Fulton‐Kehoe D. Workplace improvements to support safe and sustained return to work: Suggestions from a survey of workers with permanent impairments. Am J Ind Med 2021; 64:731-743. [PMID: 34254343 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.23274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2021] [Revised: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Roughly 10% of occupational injuries result in permanent impairment. After initial return to work (RTW), many workers with permanent impairments face RTW interruption due to reinjury, unstable health, disability, and layoff. This study used open-ended survey data to: (1) explore workplace factors identified by workers as important levers for change, some of which may previously have been unrecognized; and (2) summarize workers' suggestions for workplace improvements to promote sustained RTW and prevent reinjury. METHODS This study included data from workers' compensation claims and telephone surveys of 582 Washington State workers who had RTW after a work-related injury involving permanent impairment. The survey was conducted in 2019, about a year after claim closure. We used qualitative content analysis methods to inductively code open-ended survey responses. RESULTS The most frequent themes were: safety precautions/safer workplace (18.1%), adequate staffing/appropriate task distribution (16.2%), and safety climate (14.1%). Other frequent themes included ergonomics, rest breaks, job strain, predictability and flexibility in work scheduling practices, employer response to injury, social support, communication, and respect. Many workers reported that they were not listened to, or that their input was not sought or valued. Workers often linked communication deficiencies to preventable deficiencies in safety practices, safety climate, and RTW practices, and also to lack of respect or distrust. In counterpoint, nearly one-third of respondents reported that no change was needed to their workplace. CONCLUSIONS Policies and interventions targeting worker-suggested workplace improvements may promote safe and sustained RTW, which is essential for worker health and economic stability.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jeanne M. Sears
- Department of Health Services University of Washington Seattle Washington USA
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences University of Washington Seattle Washington USA
- Harborview Injury Prevention and Research Center Seattle Washington USA
- Institute for Work and Health Toronto Ontario Canada
| | - Amy T. Edmonds
- Department of Health Services University of Washington Seattle Washington USA
| | - Ellen MacEachen
- School of Public Health Sciences University of Waterloo Waterloo Ontario Canada
| | - Deborah Fulton‐Kehoe
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences University of Washington Seattle Washington USA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Gragnano A, Villotti P, Larivière C, Negrini A, Corbière M. A Systematic Search and Review of Questionnaires Measuring Individual psychosocial Factors Predicting Return to Work After Musculoskeletal and Common Mental Disorders. JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL REHABILITATION 2021; 31:491-511. [PMID: 33355911 PMCID: PMC8298352 DOI: 10.1007/s10926-020-09935-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/20/2020] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Purpose Individual psychosocial factors are crucial in the return to work (RTW) process of workers with musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) and common mental disorders (CMDs). However, the quality and validity of the questionnaires used to measure these factors have rarely been investigated. The present systematic search and literature review aims at identifying, categorizing, and evaluating the questionnaires (measurement tools) used to measure individual psychosocial factors related to the perception of the personal condition and motivation to RTW that are predictive of successful RTW among workers with MSDs or CMDs. Methods Through a systematic search on PubMed, Web of Science, and PsycINFO library databases and grey literature, we identified the individual psychosocial factors predictive of successful RTW among these workers. Then, we retrieved the questionnaires used to measure these factors. Finally, we searched for articles validating these questionnaires to describe them exhaustively from a psychometric and practical point of view. Results: The review included 76 studies from an initial pool of 2263 articles. Three common significant predictors of RTW after MSDs and CMDs emerged (i.e., RTW expectations, RTW self-efficacy, and work ability), two significant predictors of RTW after MSDs only (i.e., work involvement and the self-perceived connection between health and job), and two significant predictors of RTW after CMDs only (i.e., optimism and pessimism). We analyzed 30 questionnaires, including eight multiple-item scales and 22 single-item measures. Based on their psychometric and practical properties, we evaluated one of the eight multiple-item scales as questionable and five as excellent. Conclusions: With some exceptions (i.e., self-efficacy), the tools used to measure individual psychosocial factors show moderate to considerable room for improvement.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Gragnano
- Department of Psychology, Università degli Studi di Milano-Bicocca, Piazza dell'Ateneo Nuovo, 1, Milan, 20126, Italy.
| | - Patrizia Villotti
- Career counselling - Department of Education and Pedagogy, Université du Québec à Montréal, Montreal, Canada
| | - Christian Larivière
- Institut de Recherche Robert-Sauvé en Santé et en Sécurité du Travail, Montreal, Canada
| | - Alessia Negrini
- Institut de Recherche Robert-Sauvé en Santé et en Sécurité du Travail, Montreal, Canada
| | - Marc Corbière
- Career counselling - Department of Education and Pedagogy, Université du Québec à Montréal, Montreal, Canada
- Centre de recherche de l'Institut Universitaire en Santé Mentale de Montréal, Montreal, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
van Hees SGM, Carlier BE, Blonk RWB, Oomens S. Understanding work participation among employees with common mental disorders: What works, for whom, under what circumstances and how? A systematic realist review protocol. Work 2021; 69:827-838. [PMID: 34180455 PMCID: PMC8385521 DOI: 10.3233/wor-213515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Work participation among employees with common mental disorders (CMDs) is an increasingly important, yet highly complex phenomenon. Given the call for preventing instead of reacting to negative work outcomes, there is a need to understand how employees with CMDs can continue working. OBJECTIVES: 1) to provide insights in applying a realist approach to the literature review process and 2) to present a way to develop an explanatory framework on work participation, the related causal mechanisms and the interaction with the work context. METHODS: A systematic realist literature review, using stay at work (SAW) and work performance (WP) as outcomes of work participation. This protocol paper explains the rationale, tools and procedures developed and used for identification, selection, appraisal and synthesis of included studies. RESULTS: The review process entailed six steps to develop so called ‘middle range program theories’. Each step followed a systematic, iterative procedure using context-mechanism-outcome (CMO) configurations. CONCLUSIONS: Conducting a realist review adds on the understanding to promote work participation, by examining the heterogeneity and complexity of intervention- and observational studies. This paper facilitates other researchers within the field of occupational health by demonstrating ways to develop a framework on work participation using realist synthesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Suzanne G M van Hees
- Occupation and health research group, HAN University of Applied Sciences, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.,Tilburg School of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Tilburg University, Tilburg, the Netherlands
| | - Bouwine E Carlier
- Occupation and health research group, HAN University of Applied Sciences, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Roland W B Blonk
- Tilburg School of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Tilburg University, Tilburg, the Netherlands.,Optentia Research Focus Area, North-West University, Vanderbijlpark, South Africa.,TNO, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Shirley Oomens
- Occupation and health research group, HAN University of Applied Sciences, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.,Radboudumc, Department of Primary and Community Care, School of Occupational Health, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Sears JM, Schulman BA, Fulton-Kehoe D, Hogg-Johnson S. Workplace Organizational and Psychosocial Factors Associated with Return-to-Work Interruption and Reinjury Among Workers with Permanent Impairment. Ann Work Expo Health 2021; 65:566-580. [PMID: 33843964 DOI: 10.1093/annweh/wxaa133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2020] [Revised: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 12/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Roughly 10% of occupational injuries result in permanent impairment and a permanent partial disability (PPD) award. After initial return to work (RTW) following a work injury, many workers with permanent impairment face RTW interruption (breaks in ongoing employment due to reinjury, poor health, disability, lay-off, etc.). Most RTW and reinjury research has focused on worker-level risk factors, and less is known about contextual factors that may be amenable to workplace or workers' compensation (WC)-based interventions. The aim of this study was to identify modifiable organizational and psychosocial workplace factors associated with (i) RTW interruption and (ii) reinjury among workers with a permanent impairment. METHODS This retrospective cohort study included WC claims data and survey data for 567 injured workers who RTW at least briefly after a work-related injury that resulted in permanent impairment. Workers were interviewed once by phone, 11-15 months after WC claim closure with a PPD award. Logistic regression models were used to estimate associations between each workplace factor of interest and each outcome, controlling for whole body impairment percentage, gender, age, nativity, educational level, State Fund versus self-insured WC coverage, employer size, union membership, industry sector, and employment duration of current/most recent job. RESULTS Twelve percent of workers had been reinjured in their current or most recent job, 12% of workers were no longer working at the time of interview, and <1% of workers reported both outcomes. The most frequently reported reason for RTW interruption was impairment, disability, and/or pain from the previous work injury. Lower reported levels of safety climate, supervisor support, and ability to take time off work for personal/family matters were significantly associated with both RTW interruption and reinjury. Inadequate employer/health care provider communication, perceived stigmatization from supervisors and/or coworkers, and lower levels of coworker support were significantly associated with RTW interruption but not with reinjury. Discomfort with reporting an unsafe situation at work, absence of a health and safety committee, and higher job strain were significantly associated with reinjury, but not with RTW interruption. Inadequate safety training and lack of needed job accommodations were not significantly associated with either outcome. There were no notable or statistically significant interactions between workplace factors and degree of impairment, and no consistent direction of association. CONCLUSIONS This study provides evidence that several potentially modifiable organizational and psychosocial factors are associated with safe and sustained RTW among injured workers with work-related permanent impairment. The lack of interaction between any of these workplace factors and degree of impairment suggests that these findings may be generalizable to all workers, and further suggests that workplace interventions based on these findings might be useful for both primary and secondary prevention. Though primary prevention is key, secondary prevention efforts to sustain RTW and prevent reinjury may reduce the considerable health, economic, and social burden of occupational injury and illness.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jeanne M Sears
- Department of Health Services, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.,Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.,Harborview Injury Prevention and Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA.,Institute for Work and Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Beryl A Schulman
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Deborah Fulton-Kehoe
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Sheilah Hogg-Johnson
- Institute for Work and Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Corbière M, Mazaniello-Chézol M, Lecomte T, Guay S, Panaccio A. Developing a collaborative and sustainable return to work program for employees with common mental disorders: a participatory research with public and private organizations. Disabil Rehabil 2021; 44:5199-5211. [PMID: 34086528 DOI: 10.1080/09638288.2021.1931481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To disentangle the key steps of the return to work (RTW) process and offer clearer recovery-focused and sustainable RTW for people on sick leave due to common mental disorders (CMDs). METHODS This participatory research involves two large Canadian organizations. In each organization, we established an advisory committee composed of RTW stakeholders. We collected information in semi-structured interviews from RTW stakeholders (n = 26) with each member of the advisory committee in each organization, as well as with employees who had recently experienced CMDs. The interviews examined the RTW process for employees on sick leave due to CMDs as well as RTW stakeholders' perceptions of barriers and facilitators. A thematic approach was used to synthesize the data, following which, results were discussed with the two advisory committees to identify solutions considering key RTW steps. RESULTS Ten common key steps within the three RTW phases emerged from the semi-structured interviews with RTW stakeholders and discussions with the two advisory committees: 1) At the beginning of sickness absence and involvement of disability management team (phase 1), we found 3 steps (e.g., taking charge of the file), 2) during the involvement in treatment rehabilitation with health professionals and preparation of the RTW (phase 2), 4 steps (e.g., RTW preparation), and finally 3) the RTW and follow-up (phase 3) consists of 3 steps (e.g., gradual RTW). CONCLUSION A participatory study involving RTW stakeholders helped identify 10 common key steps within three phases to support RTW sustainability of people with CMDs. Future research will need to address how RTW coordinators intervene in the RTW process of employees with CMDs within these steps.IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATIONRehabilitation professionals will benefit from a detailed description of the RTW process (10 steps spread out over 3 RTW phases), allowing them to standardize it while adopting a personalized approach for the employee on sick leave.Rehabilitation professionals are informed of stakeholders' role and actions required in the RTW process; as such the communication between RTW stakeholders should be improved.RTW coordinators will be able to tailor more precisely their intervention, considering the detailed RTW process and RTW stakeholders' role and actions, and thus will become the pivot occupational health specialists for the RTW process.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marc Corbière
- Research Chair Mental Health and Work, Institut universitaire en santé mentale de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada.,Research Centre, Institut universitaire en santé mentale de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada.,Department of Education and Pedagogy, Université du Québec à Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Maud Mazaniello-Chézol
- Research Chair Mental Health and Work, Institut universitaire en santé mentale de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada.,Research Centre, Institut universitaire en santé mentale de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada.,Department of Family Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Tania Lecomte
- Research Centre, Institut universitaire en santé mentale de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada.,Department of Psychology, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Stéphane Guay
- Research Centre, Institut universitaire en santé mentale de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada.,School of Criminology, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Alexandra Panaccio
- John Molson School of Business, Concordia University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| |
Collapse
|