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Petersen KS, Hedeager Momsen AM, Vinther-Nielsen C. Return-to-work intervention while undergoing cancer treatment: Female cancer survivors' experiences. Work 2023:WOR210421. [PMID: 36641706 DOI: 10.3233/wor-210421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This qualitative study followed participants enrolled in a return to work (RTW) intervention, aiming to address individual physical, psychological and work-related challenges. OBJECTIVE To explore cancer survivors' experiences of receiving a tailored RTW intervention initiated parallel with chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy. METHODS Two semi-structured interviews of eight female cancer survivors in treatment for breast cancer (n = 7) or ovaria cancer (n = 1) were conducted prior or close to their RTW and 3-5 months later. Inspired by Margrit Schreier's inductive analysis coding and identification of themes guided the analysis. RESULTS Participants expressed satisfaction with the RTW intervention, which helped them to cope during the RTW process. Three themes with corresponding subthemes dominated the participants' experience of the RTW intervention. 1) Social workers made participants feel individually coached, 2) Collaboration with social workers helped over time to manage RTW, and 3) Social workers supported participants to conduct and adjust the RTW plan. CONCLUSION This study shows how the interaction with social workers were based on mutual trust and sense of being cared for, which seems to have a positive impact on how participants managed their RTW. Future research needs to address the long-term challenges in cancer survivors' RTW.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirsten Schultz Petersen
- Public Health and Epidemiology Group, Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | | | - Claus Vinther-Nielsen
- DEFACTUM, Central Region Denmark, Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Public Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
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2
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Lyons KD, Forcino RC, Rotenberg S, Schiffelbein JE, Morrissette KJ, Godzik CM, Lichtenstein JD. "The Last Thing You Have to Worry About": A Thematic Analysis of Employment Challenges Faced by Cancer Survivors. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph191811214. [PMID: 36141485 PMCID: PMC9517658 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191811214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2022] [Revised: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
The evidence base for interventions that support the employment goals of cancer survivors is growing but inconclusive. As the first step in initiating a community-engaged program of research aimed at developing and testing interventions to support the employment goals of cancer survivors, 23 cancer survivors, 17 healthcare providers, and 5 employers participated in individual interviews to elicit perceptions regarding local challenges and resources related to work maintenance and optimization within the context of cancer treatment. Interviews were recorded and transcribed verbatim. A thematic analysis was conducted to identify cross-cutting experiences that were voiced by all three types of participants. Three themes were found in the data: (1) the onus for identifying and articulating work-related issues is upon the cancer survivor; (2) the main support offered to cancer survivors involved time away from work and flexibility with scheduling work and treatment activities; and (3) participants voiced a lack of information regarding one or more aspects related to supporting employment goals of cancer survivors. Supportive resources designed for cancer survivors, employers, and/or healthcare providers are needed to help cancer survivors optimize their employment situations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathleen Doyle Lyons
- Department of Occupational Therapy, MGH Institute of Health Professions, Boston, MA 02129, USA
- Correspondence:
| | - Rachel C. Forcino
- The Dartmouth Institute for Health Policy and Clinical Practice, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Lebanon, NH 03756, USA
| | - Sivan Rotenberg
- Department of Psychiatry, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Lebanon, NH 03756, USA
| | - Jenna E. Schiffelbein
- Norris Cotton Cancer Center, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Lebanon, NH 03756, USA
| | - Kali J. Morrissette
- Department of Psychiatry, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Lebanon, NH 03756, USA
| | - Cassandra M. Godzik
- Department of Psychiatry, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Lebanon, NH 03756, USA
| | - Jonathan D. Lichtenstein
- The Dartmouth Institute for Health Policy and Clinical Practice, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Lebanon, NH 03756, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Lebanon, NH 03756, USA
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3
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Petersen KS, Madsen LS, Nielsen CV, Labriola M, Stapelfeldt CM. "To have and then lose the safety net" - Female cancer survivors' experiences of the process of becoming ready to return to work. Work 2021; 70:1121-1130. [PMID: 34864711 DOI: 10.3233/wor-213623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Validation studies have not been able to confirm the stage-specific understanding as operationalised in the readiness for return to work (RRTW) questionnaire. OBJECTIVE To explore retrospectively how working female cancer survivors experienced the process of becoming ready to RTW during and beyond participation in an occupational rehabilitation intervention and thereby expand the understanding of the RRTW construct. METHODS A qualitative research design was employed. Thirteen female cancer survivors were included for semi-structured interviews one to two years after they had completed active treatment and returned to work. The RRTW construct guided data generation and analysis. Content analysis was performed in four analytical steps that combined a concept-driven and a data-driven analytic strategy. RESULTS Three themes were identified; "To have and then lose the safety net", "Realise a changed life situation", "Strive to balance work and everyday life". In a time span of approximately one to two years (from receiving treatment, being enrolled in an intervention and to gradually returning to work); the identified themes were interdependent of each other as one theme gradually evolved to the next theme in the process of engaging in sustained work participation. CONCLUSIONS The present study points towards continuous development of the RRTW construct and whether the addition of a preparedness dimension would improve validity.
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Affiliation(s)
- K S Petersen
- Department of Health Science and Technology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Aalborg, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - L S Madsen
- Department of Public Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.,DEFACTUM, Social and Health Services and Labour Market, Central Region Denmark, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - C V Nielsen
- Department of Public Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.,DEFACTUM, Social and Health Services and Labour Market, Central Region Denmark, Aarhus, Denmark.,Regional Hospital West Jutland, Herning, Denmark
| | - M Labriola
- Norwegian Research Centre (NORCE), Bergen, Norway
| | - C M Stapelfeldt
- Department of Public Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.,DEFACTUM, Social and Health Services and Labour Market, Central Region Denmark, Aarhus, Denmark
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4
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Paltrinieri S, Ricchi E, Mazzini E, Cervi E, Sandri E, Fugazzaro S, Costi S. A social-healthcare pathway to facilitate return to work of cancer survivors in Italy: The UNAMANO project. Work 2021; 70:1243-1253. [PMID: 34842210 PMCID: PMC8764592 DOI: 10.3233/wor-205249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Return to work (RTW) is a major goal to promote cancer survivors’ social participation. OBJECTIVE: This study describes the multidisciplinary social-healthcare pathway called UNAMANO, conceived to support RTW in this population. METHODS: UNAMANO was developed by the Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, in partnership with the local branch of the Italian Medical Association, nonprofit associations, vocational training institutions, social cooperatives, a labour union, and a chartered accounting firm. RESULTS: UNAMANO is directed towards employed individuals diagnosed with cancer living in the province of RE. It was developed through four actions: A) training healthcare professionals on work-related occupational rehabilitation; B) dissemination among community and stakeholders; C) recruitment and training of volunteers; D) cancer survivor engagement and provision of a personalized comprehensive intervention. This consists in providing information and either occupational therapy to overcome barriers and facilitate RTW or social support through re-training and tailored job search strategies based on individual risk of job loss. CONCLUSIONS: UNAMANO is the first Italian multidisciplinary social-healthcare pathway supporting RTW of cancer survivors. Addressing a wide area of cancer survivors’ needs, it provides personalized intervention to resolve work-related issues. We propose this patient-centred RTW model to promote an easier transition from hospital to community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Paltrinieri
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Unit, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Elena Ricchi
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Unit, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Elisa Mazzini
- Medical Directorate, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Elena Cervi
- In-Forma Salute, Medical Library, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Elisa Sandri
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Unit, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Stefania Fugazzaro
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Unit, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Stefania Costi
- Department of Surgery, Medicine, Dentistry and Morphological Sciences, Università di Modena e Reggio Emilia, Italy.,Scientific Directorate, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Italy
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5
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Zaman AGNM, Tytgat KMAJ, Klinkenbijl JHG, Frings-Dresen MHW, de Boer AGEM. Is a tailored work-related support intervention feasible in everyday clinical practice? The experience of healthcare professionals and patients with cancer. Work 2021; 66:871-884. [PMID: 32831217 PMCID: PMC7683072 DOI: 10.3233/wor-203232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Work is valued as an important feature in life, however patients diagnosed with cancer can experience work-related problems. We developed a work-related support intervention to support those in need. OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of the performed tailored GIRONA (Gastro Intestinal cancer patients Receiving Occupational support Near and After diagnosis) intervention and to describe the experiences of those receiving the work-related support and of those providing it. METHODS An online questionnaire was used to survey the feasibility of the intervention of the support recipients (patients diagnosed with gastrointestinal cancer) and the support providers (healthcare professionals including: oncology nurses and oncological occupational physicians). Five themes were covered: acceptability, demand, implementation, practicality and integration of Bowen's feasibility model. RESULTS Twenty-three patients, 14 oncology nurses and 4 oncological occupational physicians, shared their experiences about the tailored work-related support intervention. This intervention was generally perceived as positive and feasible by the participants. Some patients received work-related support despite not experiencing severe problems; others mentioned that they received no such support even though they did need it. Despite positive experiences, there are some barriers to tackle, such as length of consultation, timing of the initiation of work-related support and embedding the oncological occupational physician within the clinical setting. CONCLUSION According to the healthcare professionals involved, GIRONA is feasible, however some practical barriers were mentioned. The intervention was perceived as positive by both patients and healthcare professionals, but the tailored component could be further improved to better support those in need of work-related support.
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Affiliation(s)
- AnneClaire G N M Zaman
- Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Coronel Institute of Occupational Health, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Kristien M A J Tytgat
- Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Department of Gastroenterology, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jean H G Klinkenbijl
- Gelre Hospitals, Department of Surgery, Apeldoorn, The Netherlands and University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Monique H W Frings-Dresen
- Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Coronel Institute of Occupational Health, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Angela G E M de Boer
- Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Coronel Institute of Occupational Health, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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6
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Zaman ACGNM, Tytgat KMAJ, Klinkenbijl JHG, Boer FCD, Brink MA, Brinkhuis JC, Bruinvels DJ, Dol LCM, van Duijvendijk P, Hemmer PHJ, Lamme B, Loosveld OJL, Mok MM, Rejda T, Rutten H, Schoorlemmer A, Sonneveld DJ, Stassen LPS, Veenstra RP, van de Ven A, Velzing ER, Frings-Dresen MHW, de Boer AGEM. Effectiveness of a Tailored Work-Related Support Intervention for Patients Diagnosed with Gastrointestinal Cancer: A Multicenter Randomized Controlled Trial. JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL REHABILITATION 2021; 31:323-338. [PMID: 32880094 PMCID: PMC8172517 DOI: 10.1007/s10926-020-09920-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Purpose The aim of this research was to study the effectiveness on return to work (RTW) of an early tailored work-related support intervention in patients diagnosed with curative gastrointestinal cancer. Methods A multicenter randomized controlled trial was undertaken, in which patients were assigned randomly to the intervention or the control group (usual care). The intervention encompassed three psychosocial work-related support meetings, starting before treatment. Five self-reported questionnaires were sent over twelve months of follow-up. Primary outcome was days until RTW (fulltime or partial) and secondary outcomes included work status, quality of life, work ability, and work limitations. Descriptive analysis, Kaplan-Meier analysis, relative risk ratio and linear mixed models were applied. Results Participants (N = 88) had a mean age of 55 years; 67% were male and the most common cancer type was colon cancer (66%). Of the participants, 42 were randomized to the intervention group. The median time from sick leave until RTW was 233 days (range 187-279 days) for the control group, versus 190 days (range 139-240 days) for the intervention group (log-rank p = 0.37). The RTW rate at twelve months after baseline was 83.3% for the intervention group and 73.5% for the control group. Work limitations did statistically differ between the groups over time (p = 0.01), but quality of life and work ability did not. Conclusion Patients in the intervention group seem to take fewer days to RTW, albeit not to a statistically significant extent.Trial registration Trial NL4920 (NTR5022) (Dutch Trial Register https://www.trialregister.nl ).
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Affiliation(s)
- A. C. G. N. M. Zaman
- Amsterdam UMC (Location AMC), Coronel Institute of Occupational Health, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - K. M. A. J. Tytgat
- Amsterdam UMC (Location AMC), Department of Gastroenterology, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - J. H. G. Klinkenbijl
- Department of Surgery, Gelre Hospitals, Apeldoorn, The Netherlands
- University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - F. C. den Boer
- Department of Surgery, Zaans Medical Center, Zaandam, The Netherlands
| | - M. A. Brink
- Department of Gastroenterology, Meander Medical Center, Amersfoort, The Netherlands
| | | | | | - L. C. M. Dol
- Department of Surgery, Northwest Hospital Group, Alkmaar, The Netherlands
| | | | - P. H. J. Hemmer
- Department of Surgical Oncology, University Medical Center Groningen (UMCG), Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - B. Lamme
- Department of Surgery, Albert Schweitzer Hospital, Dordrecht, The Netherlands
| | - O. J. L. Loosveld
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amphia Hospital, Breda, The Netherlands
| | - M. M. Mok
- Department of Surgery, OLVG (Location East), Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - T. Rejda
- Tomas Rejda Counselling (Oncological Occupational Physician), Alphen aan den Rijn, The Netherlands
| | - H. Rutten
- Department of Surgery, Catharina Hospital Eindhoven, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - A. Schoorlemmer
- Amsterdam UMC (Location AMC), Department of Surgery, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - D. J. Sonneveld
- Department of Surgery, Dijklander Hospital, Hoorn, The Netherlands
| | - L. P. S. Stassen
- Department of Surgery, Maastricht University Medical Center (MUMC), Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - R. P. Veenstra
- Department of Gastroenterology, Martini Hospital, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - A. van de Ven
- Department of General Surgery, Flevo Hospital, Almere, The Netherlands
| | - E. R. Velzing
- Vel.Onc@Work Counselling (Oncological Occupational Physician), Leidschendam, The Netherlands
| | - M. H. W. Frings-Dresen
- Amsterdam UMC (Location AMC), Coronel Institute of Occupational Health, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - A. G. E. M. de Boer
- Amsterdam UMC (Location AMC), Coronel Institute of Occupational Health, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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7
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A multidisciplinary working model for promoting return to work of cancer survivors. Support Care Cancer 2021; 29:5151-5160. [PMID: 33611646 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-021-06074-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2020] [Accepted: 02/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite wide recognition of the necessity of an integrative maintenance and return to work (RTW) program for cancer survivors, no such program has been described in the literature. AIMS To examine a working model of an integrative multidisciplinary health care approach for promoting RTW, using the Delphi method. METHODS A working model for promoting cancer survivors' RTW by oncology health professionals was subjected to two rounds of evaluation by an expert panel in accordance with the Delphi research method. Twenty-six international experts in oncology (social workers, nurses, psychologists, physicians, and cancer patients) participated in the first round and 16 participated in the second round. RESULTS The mean score of the working model's applicability was 6.07 (SD = 1.07, range = 1-7). The model outlines in detail an integrative approach for promotion of RTW according to two axes: the oncology health professionals' role and the timeline axis featuring four stages of oncology treatment and follow-up. CONCLUSIONS Our proposed model addresses the need for an integrated program that may increase the rate of RTW and improve the quality of life of cancer survivors. The model should be subjected to further evaluation, especially its adaptability to different health systems in different countries.
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8
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Rosbjerg R, Hansen DG, Zachariae R, Hoejris I, Lund T, Labriola M. The Predictive Value of Return to Work Self-efficacy for Return to Work Among Employees with Cancer Undergoing Chemotherapy. JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL REHABILITATION 2020; 30:665-678. [PMID: 32114672 PMCID: PMC7716905 DOI: 10.1007/s10926-020-09882-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Purpose The aim of the present study was to examine the predictive value of Return to Work Self-efficacy (RTWSE) on Return to Work (RTW) among employees undergoing chemotherapy for cancer and to examine the relative contribution of RTWSE as predictor variable compared to personal, health-related, illness- and treatment-related and work-related factors. Methods A sample of 114 sickness absent employees with various cancers (age 18-62) included in the study on average 33 days after initiating chemotherapy were followed for 15 months. Data sources included patient questionnaires (RTWSE, depression, fatigue, performance status), sociodemographic factors (age, sex, job type, and perceived support from the workplace), patient records (type of cancer, treatment intention, number of treatment modalities, time since diagnosis and time since initiation of chemotherapy), and Danish national registries (RTW and education). Associations between RTWSE at baseline and weeks until full RTW during 15-months follow-up were analyzed using Cox proportional hazards regression. Results In the univariate analysis, high RTWSE was associated with shorter time to RTW (Hazard Ratio (HR) 1.84, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.12-3.03). In the multivariate model, RTWSE failed to reach statistical significance (HR 1.12, 95% CI 0.62-2.02), whereas female sex (HR 0.30, 95% CI 0.15-0.60) and receiving palliative treatment (HR 0.15, 95% CI 0.05-0.44) were significantly associated with later RTW. Conclusion Compared to other factors of significance, RTWSE was not the strongest predictor of RTW when examined among employees undergoing chemotherapy for cancer. Before using the RTWSE questionnaire to identify employees with cancer at risk of late RTW, it is important to recognize that the predictive value of RTWSE may be different for employees on sick leave due to cancer than for other sickness absence populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rikke Rosbjerg
- Department of Public Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.
- DEFACTUM, Central Denmark Region, P.P. Ørums Gade 11, 1.B, 8000, Aarhus C, Denmark.
| | - Dorte Gilså Hansen
- Research Unit of General Practice, Institute of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Robert Zachariae
- Unit for Psychooncology and Health Psychology, Department of Oncology, Department of Psychology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Inger Hoejris
- Department of Oncology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Thomas Lund
- Centre for Social Medicin, Frederiksberg and Bispebjerg Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Merete Labriola
- Centre for Social Medicin, Frederiksberg and Bispebjerg Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
- NORCE Norwegian Research Centre AS, Bergen, Norway
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9
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Rosbjerg R, Hansen DG, Zachariae R, Stapelfeldt CM, Hoejris I, Rasmussen MT, Drysdale SW, Labriola M. Validation of the Return To Work Self-Efficacy questionnaire in a population of employees undergoing treatment for cancer. Eur J Cancer Care (Engl) 2020; 30:e13373. [PMID: 33216404 DOI: 10.1111/ecc.13373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2020] [Revised: 09/09/2020] [Accepted: 10/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Several Return To Work Self-Efficacy (RTWSE) questionnaires have been developed and found relevant to understanding the return to work (RTW) process of employees with various health problems, including employees with cancer. The aim of the present study was to examine the reliability and validity of the Danish 19-item RTWSE questionnaire (RTWSE-19DK ) in a sample of employees with cancer. METHODS Employees undergoing treatment for cancer completed the RTWSE-19DK at baseline (n = 68) and at 1 week (n = 49). Additional questionnaires measured work ability, cancer-related self-efficacy and psychological distress. Internal consistency, test-retest reliability and construct validity were examined. RESULTS The total and the three subscales of the RTWSE-19DK showed good internal consistencies with Cronbach's alphas between 0.90 and 0.97 and high test-retest reliability with Intraclass Correlation Coefficients between 0.84 and 0.90. Examining construct validity, the RTWSE-19DK showed medium and large correlations with cancer-related self-efficacy (r = 0.54), mental work ability (r = 0.51), and general work ability (r = 0.35), small correlations with physical work ability (r = 0.26) and anxiety (r = -0.10), and no correlations with depression (r = -0.08) and test date (r = 0.03). CONCLUSION The RTWSE-19DK showed good reliability and adequate validity in employees undergoing cancer treatment. In clinical practice, the RTWSE-19 questionnaire may help practitioners identify areas of concern in the RTW process of cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rikke Rosbjerg
- DEFACTUM, Central Denmark Region, Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Public Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Dorte Gilså Hansen
- Research Unit of General Practice, Institute of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Robert Zachariae
- Unit for Psychooncology and Health Psychology, Department of Psychology, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Oncology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | | | - Inger Hoejris
- Department of Oncology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | | | - Susanne Wiben Drysdale
- The Body and Cancer program, Department of Oncology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Merete Labriola
- Centre for Social Medicin, Frederiksberg and Bispebjerg Hospital, Frederiksberg, Denmark
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10
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Nishikido N, Yoshikawa E, Sasaki M, Sudo J, Mochizuki M, Ito M, Watai I. Support for balancing cancer treatment and work by occupational health nurses: support structures and implementation status. INDUSTRIAL HEALTH 2020; 58:354-365. [PMID: 32062626 PMCID: PMC7417504 DOI: 10.2486/indhealth.2019-0150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2019] [Accepted: 01/29/2020] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to quantitatively grasp the structure of support for balancing cancer treatment and work among occupational health nurses (OHNs) with the current implementation status. The anonymous questionnaire was designed based on the findings of our previous qualitative study and distributed to OHNs. The degrees of support implementation for workers with cancer, superiors and colleagues, and human resource managers were assessed for each item. Factor analysis of support items was conducted, and Wilcoxon signed-rank test was carried out to compare the support scores between the factors. Support for workers with cancer comprised six factors in which the factor, concerning the provision of information regarding resources inside and outside the company, showed the lowest score. Support for superiors and colleagues was divided into three factors, and that for human resource managers comprised two factors. By Mann-Whitney's U-test, it was found that OHNs, who worked without full-time occupational health physicians for smaller companies, showed significantly higher implementation for several support factors, such as support to human resource managers. This study revealed the structure as well as implementation status of OHNs' support for balancing cancer treatment and work, which will provide suggestions for developing training programs for OHNs to promote these activities.
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11
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Tamminga SJ, Braspenning AM, Haste A, Sharp L, Frings-Dresen MHW, de Boer AGEM. Barriers to and Facilitators of Implementing Programs for Return to Work (RTW) of Cancer Survivors in Four European Countries: A Qualitative Study. JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL REHABILITATION 2019; 29:550-559. [PMID: 30467648 PMCID: PMC6675765 DOI: 10.1007/s10926-018-9818-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Purpose Implementation of return to work (RTW) programs for cancer survivors has proved to be challenging. The purpose of our study was to gather experiences about barriers to and facilitators of implementing RTW programs for cancer survivors in four European countries. Methods Separate multidisciplinary focus groups were held in Belgium (n = 8), the Netherlands (n = 8), Ireland (n = 6), and UK (n = 4) in 2017 and included among others a physician, and a representative of an employer, a cancer society, and the government. Primary focus of thematic analysis was what could be done to improve the implementation of RTW programs for cancer survivors. Analysis used the 'Arena in work disability prevention model' as the conceptual framework. Results Many barriers to and facilitators of implementing RTW programs for cancer survivors were described including the personal, workplace, healthcare and legislative system as well as the overall societal and political context. That is, for example cooperation between stakeholders, time, money and ability issues at the workplace, and insufficient/inadequate legislation. Insufficient knowledge of cancer and its implications for work was identified as an overarching theme in all countries leading to stigma, misconceptions and lack of communication. This was mentioned in relation to the workplace, personal and healthcare system, and in the overall societal context. Conclusions Results indicate that a prerequisite for implementing RTW programs is raising sufficient knowledge regarding cancer and its implications for work. Greater knowledge could be a first step to better implement RTW programs which may result in better supporting cancer survivors with their RTW .
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Affiliation(s)
- Sietske J Tamminga
- Department: Coronel Institute of Occupational Health, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Anna M Braspenning
- Department: Coronel Institute of Occupational Health, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Anna Haste
- Institute of Health & Society, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Linda Sharp
- Institute of Health & Society, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Monique H W Frings-Dresen
- Department: Coronel Institute of Occupational Health, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Angela G E M de Boer
- Department: Coronel Institute of Occupational Health, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
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12
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Tamminga SJ, Wolvers MDJ, Greidanus MA, Zaman AGNM, Braspenning AM, Frings-Dresen MHW, de Boer AGEM. Employees Diagnosed with Cancer: Current Perspectives and Future Directions from an Employer's Point of View. JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL REHABILITATION 2019; 29:472-474. [PMID: 30039313 PMCID: PMC6531607 DOI: 10.1007/s10926-018-9802-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Purpose and methods Cancer survivors have a higher risk of adverse work outcomes such as not being able to return to work (RTW). The process of returning to work is complex as a result of the diverse stakeholders and numerous factors involved related to the employee diagnosed with cancer, the work environment, health care system, and the legal system. One of the key stakeholders is the employer, as the employer is in the position to facilitate work accommodations. Therefore, the purpose of this brief review is to consider opportunities regarding the role of the employer to enhance the work participation of employees with cancer. Results and conclusions We currently know little about which aspects of employer support have a positive impact on the ability of employees diagnosed with cancer to retain at work or RTW. In addition, there is a lack of interventions and tools which support employers in their management of employees diagnosed with cancer. The inclusion of employer support into the workplace can help employees diagnosed with cancer with their work retention and RTW, which is an important aspect of their quality of life and benefits the society at large.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sietske J Tamminga
- Coronel Institute of Occupational Health, Academic Medical Center (AMC), University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Marije D J Wolvers
- Coronel Institute of Occupational Health, Academic Medical Center (AMC), University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Michiel A Greidanus
- Coronel Institute of Occupational Health, Academic Medical Center (AMC), University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - AnneClaire G N M Zaman
- Coronel Institute of Occupational Health, Academic Medical Center (AMC), University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Anna M Braspenning
- Coronel Institute of Occupational Health, Academic Medical Center (AMC), University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Monique H W Frings-Dresen
- Coronel Institute of Occupational Health, Academic Medical Center (AMC), University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Angela G E M de Boer
- Coronel Institute of Occupational Health, Academic Medical Center (AMC), University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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13
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Yagil D, Eshed-Lavi N, Carel R, Cohen M. Return to Work of Cancer Survivors: Predicting Healthcare Professionals' Assumed Role Responsibility. JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL REHABILITATION 2019; 29:443-450. [PMID: 30120666 DOI: 10.1007/s10926-018-9807-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Purpose Returning to work is highly beneficial for many cancer survivors. While research has documented the significance of healthcare professionals in the process of return to work (RTW), very little is known about those professionals' views regarding their responsibility for RTW. The purpose of the present study was to identify factors that predict the extent to which healthcare professionals view involvement in the RTW of cancer survivors as part of their role. Methods In a cross-sectional design, questionnaires measuring attitudes regarding personal role responsibility for RTW, team role responsibility for RTW and benefits of RTW were administered to 157 healthcare professionals who care for working-age cancer survivors: oncologists, occupational physicians, family physicians, oncology nurses, oncology social workers, and psychologists. Results Both belief in the benefits of RTW, and the view that RTW is the team responsibility of healthcare professionals working with cancer survivors, are positively related to viewing RTW as part of the responsibilities of one's personal professional role. Moderation analysis indicated that perception of team responsibility for RTW moderates the effect of the perceived benefits of RTW, such that the perception of benefits is significantly associated with personal role responsibility only when there is a low level of perceived team responsibility. Conclusions Issues related to RTW should be routinely included in basic and advanced training of healthcare professionals involved in the treatment of working-age cancer survivors, to increase awareness of this aspect of cancer survivors' well-being and position RTW as part of healthcare professionals' role responsibilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dana Yagil
- Faculty Social Welfare and Health Sciences, University of Haifa, Mount Carmel, 31905, Haifa, Israel.
| | - Nofar Eshed-Lavi
- Faculty Social Welfare and Health Sciences, University of Haifa, Mount Carmel, 31905, Haifa, Israel
| | - Rafi Carel
- Faculty Social Welfare and Health Sciences, University of Haifa, Mount Carmel, 31905, Haifa, Israel
| | - Miri Cohen
- Faculty Social Welfare and Health Sciences, University of Haifa, Mount Carmel, 31905, Haifa, Israel
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