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Bosma AR, Boot CRL, Snippen NC, Schaafsma FG, Anema JR. Supporting employees with chronic conditions to stay at work: perspectives of occupational health professionals and organizational representatives. BMC Public Health 2021; 21:592. [PMID: 33765993 PMCID: PMC7992826 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-021-10633-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2020] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Supporting employees with chronic conditions can prevent work-related problems and facilitate sustainable employment. Various stakeholders are involved in providing support to these employees. Understanding their current practices and experienced barriers is useful for the development of an organizational-level intervention to improve this support. The aim of this study was to explore the current practices of occupational physicians and organizational representatives, identifying both barriers to providing support and opportunities for improvement. Methods Two focus groups with sixteen occupational physicians and seven semi-structured interviews with organizational representatives were held between January and June 2018. Data was analyzed using thematic content analysis. Results Several barriers to offer support were identified, including barriers at the organizational level (negative organizational attitudes towards employees with chronic conditions), the employee level (employees’ reluctance to collaborate with employers in dealing with work-related problems), and in the collaboration between occupational physicians and organizational representatives. In addition, barriers in occupational health care were described, e.g. occupational physicians’ lack of visibility and a lack of utilization of occupational physicians’ support. Opportunities to optimize support included a shared responsibility of all stakeholders involved, actively anchoring prevention of work-related problems in policy and practice and a more pronounced role of the health care sector in preventing work-related problems. Conclusions Preventing work-related problems for employees with chronic conditions can be achieved by addressing the identified barriers to provide support. In addition, both occupational physicians and organizational representatives should initiate and secure preventive support at the organizational level and in occupational health care. These insights are helpful in developing an intervention aimed at supporting employees with chronic conditions to stay at work. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12889-021-10633-y.
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Affiliation(s)
- A R Bosma
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Amsterdam, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - C R L Boot
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Amsterdam, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - N C Snippen
- Department of Health Sciences, Community and Occupational Medicine, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - F G Schaafsma
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Amsterdam, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - J R Anema
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Amsterdam, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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Bosma AR, Boot CRL, Schaafsma FG, Kok G, Anema JR. Development of an Intervention to Create a Supportive Work Environment for Employees with Chronic Conditions: An Intervention Mapping Approach. JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL REHABILITATION 2020; 30:624-634. [PMID: 32200483 PMCID: PMC7716852 DOI: 10.1007/s10926-020-09885-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Purpose This study describes the development of an evidence-based intervention to create a supportive work environment for employees with chronic conditions. Occupational physicians (OPs) play an important role in guiding organizations in this process of organizational change. Supportive work environments can aid in preventing work-related problems and facilitate sustainable employment. Current workplace interventions for employees with chronic conditions are mainly focused on return to work or a reduction in sick leave at the individual worker's level. This study contributes to the literature an organizational-level intervention which utilizes a preventive approach. Methods Intervention mapping (IM) is a six-step, structured protocol that was used to develop this intervention. In step 1, a needs assessment was conducted to define the problem and explore the perspectives of all stakeholders involved. The program outcomes and the performance objectives of employees with chronic conditions and occupational physicians were specified in step 2. In step 3, appropriate methods and practical applications were chosen. Step 4 describes the actual development of the intervention, consisting of (1) a training for occupational physicians to teach them how to guide organizations in creating a supportive work environment; (2) a practical assignment; and (3) a follow-up meeting. The intervention will be implemented in a pilot study in which occupational physicians will put their acquired knowledge and skills into practice within one of their organizations, which is delineated in step 5. Conclusions IM proved to be a valuable and practical tool for the development of this intervention, aiming to facilitate sustainable employment for employees with chronic conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- A. R. Bosma
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - C. R. L. Boot
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - F. G. Schaafsma
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - G. Kok
- Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - J. R. Anema
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Baker P, Coole C, Drummond A, Khan S, McDaid C, Hewitt C, Kottam L, Ronaldson S, Coleman E, McDonald DA, Nouri F, Narayanasamy M, McNamara I, Fitch J, Thomson L, Richardson G, Rangan A. Occupational advice to help people return to work following lower limb arthroplasty: the OPAL intervention mapping study. Health Technol Assess 2020; 24:1-408. [PMID: 32930659 PMCID: PMC7520717 DOI: 10.3310/hta24450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hip and knee replacements are regularly carried out for patients who work. There is little evidence about these patients' needs and the factors influencing their return to work. There is a paucity of guidance to help patients return to work after surgery and a need for structured occupational advice to enable them to return to work safely and effectively. OBJECTIVES To develop an occupational advice intervention to support early recovery to usual activities including work that is tailored to the requirements of patients undergoing hip or knee replacements. To test the acceptability, practicality and feasibility of this intervention within current care frameworks. DESIGN An intervention mapping approach was used to develop the intervention. The research methods employed were rapid evidence synthesis, qualitative interviews with patients and stakeholders, a prospective cohort study, a survey of clinical practice and a modified Delphi consensus process. The developed intervention was implemented and assessed during the final feasibility stage of the intervention mapping process. SETTING Orthopaedic departments in NHS secondary care. PARTICIPANTS Patients who were in work and intending to return to work following primary elective hip or knee replacement surgery, health-care professionals and employers. INTERVENTIONS Occupational advice intervention. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Development of an occupational advice intervention, fidelity of the developed intervention when delivered in a clinical setting, patient and clinician perspectives of the intervention and preliminary assessments of intervention effectiveness and cost. RESULTS A cohort study (154 patients), 110 stakeholder interviews, a survey of practice (152 respondents) and evidence synthesis provided the necessary information to develop the intervention. The intervention included information resources, a personalised return-to-work plan and co-ordination from the health-care team to support the delivery of 13 patient and 20 staff performance objectives. To support delivery, a range of tools (e.g. occupational checklists, patient workbooks and employer information), roles (e.g. return-to-work co-ordinator) and training resources were created. Feasibility was assessed for 21 of the 26 patients recruited from three NHS trusts. Adherence to the defined performance objectives was 75% for patient performance objectives and 74% for staff performance objectives. The intervention was generally well received, although the short time frame available for implementation and concurrent research evaluation led to some confusion among patients and those delivering the intervention regarding its purpose and the roles and responsibilities of key staff. LIMITATIONS Implementation and uptake of the intervention was not standardised and was limited by the study time frame. Evaluation of the intervention involved a small number of patients, which limited the ability to assess it. CONCLUSIONS The developed occupational advice intervention supports best practice. Evaluation demonstrated good rates of adherence against defined performance objectives. However, a number of operational and implementation issues require further attention. FUTURE WORK The intervention warrants a randomised controlled trial to assess its clinical effectiveness and cost-effectiveness to improve rates and timing of sustained return to work after surgery. This research should include the development of a robust implementation strategy to ensure that adoption is sustained. STUDY REGISTRATION Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN27426982 and PROSPERO CRD42016045235. FUNDING This project was funded by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Health Technology Assessment programme and will be published in full in Health Technology Assessment; Vol. 24, No. 45. See the NIHR Journals Library website for further project information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Baker
- South Tees Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Middlesbrough, UK
- York Trials Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, UK
| | - Carol Coole
- School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Avril Drummond
- School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Sayeed Khan
- Make UK, The Manufacturers' Organisation, London, UK
| | - Catriona McDaid
- York Trials Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, UK
| | - Catherine Hewitt
- York Trials Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, UK
| | - Lucksy Kottam
- South Tees Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Middlesbrough, UK
| | - Sarah Ronaldson
- York Trials Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, UK
| | - Elizabeth Coleman
- York Trials Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, UK
| | - David A McDonald
- Whole System Patient Flow Programme, Scottish Government, Edinburgh, UK
- Nursing, Midwifery and Allied Health Professions Research Unit, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, UK
| | - Fiona Nouri
- School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Melanie Narayanasamy
- School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Iain McNamara
- Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Norwich, UK
| | - Judith Fitch
- British Orthopaedic Association Patient Liaison Group, Royal College of Surgeons of England, London, UK
| | - Louise Thomson
- School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | | | - Amar Rangan
- South Tees Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Middlesbrough, UK
- York Trials Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, UK
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences (NDORMS), University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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Coole C, Baker P, McDaid C, Drummond A. Using intervention mapping to develop an occupational advice intervention to aid return to work following hip and knee replacement in the United Kingdom. BMC Health Serv Res 2020; 20:523. [PMID: 32517684 PMCID: PMC7285551 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-020-05375-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2019] [Accepted: 05/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background There are increasing numbers of total hip replacements (THR) and total knee replacements (TKR) being performed in patients of working age. Providing patients undergoing TKR and THR with return to work advice might facilitate return to work. The aim of this paper is to report on the process used to systematically develop an occupational advice intervention to be delivered in hospital for those undergoing arthroplasty. Methods The six-step Intervention Mapping (IM) approach to development, implementation and evaluation of a theory and evidence-based interventions was followed. This paper reports on the development of the intervention covered by steps 1 to 4 of the IM process. Steps 1–3 gathered data on current practice and barriers to change using a mixed methods approach (cohort study of patients undergoing THR or TKR, stakeholder interviews, survey of practice, evidence synthesis) and provided a theoretical framework for intervention development. Step 4 used information from steps 1–3 in combination with a Delphi consensus process to develop the intervention and the associated tools and materials to facilitate its delivery. Results The final intervention identified included a number of core principles including: early patient identification; delivery of key information to patients and their employers; assessment and support by a member of the orthopaedic team; procedures for escalation based on patient need; mechanisms to support communication; and training and support for the clinical teams delivering care. A total of 13 patient and 20 staff performance objectives as delivery requirements, were supported by a range of tools, roles and training resources. The intervention addressed outcomes based at the individual and interpersonal levels of the ecological model. Conclusions Following the IM approach resulted in a structured and justified occupational intervention for delivery in secondary care for patients undergoing total hip and knee replacement. The feasibility of the intervention will subsequently be tested alongside further investigation to establish its effectiveness and cost-effectiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carol Coole
- School of Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG7 2HA, England.,Medical School, Queens Medical Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG7 2HA, England
| | - Paul Baker
- The James Cook University Hospital, South Tees Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Middlesbrough, TS4 3BW, England.
| | - Catriona McDaid
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, Seebohm Rowntree Building, Heslington York, YO10 5DD, England
| | - Avril Drummond
- School of Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG7 2HA, England.,Medical School, Queens Medical Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG7 2HA, England
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Palsson TS, Boudreau S, Høgh M, Herrero P, Bellosta-Lopez P, Domenech-Garcia V, Langella F, Gagni N, Christensen SW, Villumsen M. Education as a strategy for managing occupational-related musculoskeletal pain: a scoping review. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e032668. [PMID: 32051307 PMCID: PMC7045149 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2019-032668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Musculoskeletal (MSK) pain is the primary contributor to disability worldwide. There is a growing consensus that MSK pain is a recurrent multifactorial condition underpinned by health and lifestyle factors. Studies suggest that education on work-related pain and individualised advice could be essential and effective for managing persistent MSK pain. OBJECTIVE The objective of this scoping review was to map the existing educational resources for work-related MSK (WRMSK) pain, and the effects of implementing educational strategies in the workplace on managing WRMSK pain. METHODS This scoping review assessed original studies that implemented and assessed education as a strategy to manage WMSK pain. Literature search strategies were developed using thesaurus headings (ie, MeSH and CINAHL headings) and free-text search including words related to MSK in an occupational setting. The search was carried out in PubMed, CINAHL, Cochrane Library and Web of Science in the period 12-14 February 2019. RESULTS A total of 19 peer-reviewed articles were included and the study design, aim and outcomes were summarised. Of the 19 peer-reviewed articles, 10 randomised controlled trial (RCT) studies assessed the influence of education on work-related MSK pain. Many studies provided a limited description of the education material and assessed/used different methods of delivery. A majority of studies concluded education positively influences work-related MSK pain. Further, some studies reported additive effects of physical activity or ergonomic adjustments. CONCLUSIONS There is a gap in knowledge regarding the best content and delivery of education of material in the workplace. Although beneficial outcomes were reported, more RCT studies are required to determine the effects of education material as compared with other interventions, such as exercise or behavioural therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Morten Høgh
- Department of Health Science and Technology, Aalborg Universitet, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Pablo Herrero
- Physiotherapy, San Jorge University, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Pablo Bellosta-Lopez
- Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of San Jorge, Villanueva de Gallego, Aragón, Spain
| | - Victor Domenech-Garcia
- Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of San Jorge, Villanueva de Gallego, Aragón, Spain
| | - Francesco Langella
- Orthopedic and Traumatology, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Galeazzi, Milano, Lombardia, Italy
| | - Nicolo Gagni
- Orthopedic and Traumatology, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Galeazzi, Milano, Lombardia, Italy
| | - Steffan Wittrup Christensen
- Department of Health Science and Technology, Aalborg Universitet, Aalborg, Denmark
- Department of Physiotherapy, University College of Northern Denmark, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Morten Villumsen
- Department of Health Science and Technology, Aalborg Universitet, Aalborg, Denmark
- Aalborg Municipality, Aalborg, Denmark
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Bosma AR, Boot CRL, Schaafsma FG, Anema JR. Facilitators, barriers and support needs for staying at work with a chronic condition: a focus group study. BMC Public Health 2020; 20:201. [PMID: 32033556 PMCID: PMC7006125 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-020-8320-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2019] [Accepted: 02/04/2020] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Working with a chronic condition can be challenging. Providing support to workers with a chronic condition can help them to stay at work and prevent work-related problems. Workers with a chronic condition who successfully stay at work can provide valuable input for the development of effective supportive interventions to prevent exit from work and facilitate sustainable employment. The aim of this study is to explore the lived experiences of workers with a chronic condition and identify existing barriers, facilitators and possible support needs for staying at work. METHODS Four focus groups were conducted between August and December 2017 with workers with one or more chronic conditions (n = 30). Participants included employees and (partially) self-employed workers. All focus group data were transcribed verbatim and thematically analyzed. RESULTS Disclosure and expressing one's needs were considered important personal facilitators for staying at work. Environmental facilitators included receiving practical information on working with a chronic condition and social and employer support. Environmental barriers were identified in the work environment, the health care system and service provision, e.g., manager and co-worker's lack of knowledge about working with a chronic condition, a lack of focus on work in the course of treatment for a chronic condition, dissatisfaction with occupational physician support, and the absence of support for self-employed workers. Provided support should be available to all workers, and be proactive and tailored to the workers' specific support needs. CONCLUSIONS A variety of facilitators, barriers and support needs were identified in various domains. By addressing environmental barriers (e.g., by integrating work in the course of treatment and creating supportive work environments), sustainable employment by workers with a chronic condition can be promoted.
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Affiliation(s)
- A R Bosma
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam Public Health research institute, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - C R L Boot
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam Public Health research institute, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - F G Schaafsma
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam Public Health research institute, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - J R Anema
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam Public Health research institute, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Fassier JB, Sarnin P, Rouat S, Péron J, Kok G, Letrilliart L, Lamort-Bouché M. Interventions Developed with the Intervention Mapping Protocol in Work Disability Prevention: A Systematic Review of the Literature. JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL REHABILITATION 2019; 29:11-24. [PMID: 29948471 DOI: 10.1007/s10926-018-9776-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Purposes Intervention mapping (IM) is a protocol for developing effective behavior change interventions. It has been used for 10 years to develop work disability prevention (WDP) interventions, but it is not known to what extent and with what success. The main objective of this study was to review the effectiveness of these interventions. Secondary objectives were to review their fidelity to the IM protocol, their theoretical frameworks and their content. Methods A search strategy was conducted in MEDLINE, Web of Science, PsycINFO, Pascal, Francis, and BDSP. All titles and abstracts were reviewed. A standardized extraction form was developed. All included studies were reviewed by two reviewers blinded to each other. Results Eight WDP interventions were identified aimed at return to work (RTW; n = 6) and self-management at work (n = 2). RTW interventions targeted workers with stress-related mental disorders (n = 1), low back pain (n = 1), musculoskeletal disorders (n = 1), cancer (n = 2) and gynecological surgery (n = 1). The fidelity to the IM protocol was weaker for the participatory planning group. Matrices of change, change methods, and applications were systematically reported. The main theoretical frameworks used were the attitude-social influence-self efficacy model (n = 4) and the theory of planned behavior (n = 2). Half of the interventions included a workplace component (n = 4). Two interventions were reported as effective, and one partially effective. Conclusion The IM protocol is used in WDP since 2007. The participative dimension appears underused. Few theoretical frameworks were used. Implications are to better consider the stakeholders involvement, and mobilize theoretical frameworks with greater attempts to intervene on the work environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- J B Fassier
- Univ Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Unité mixte de recherche Epidémiologique et de Surveillance Transport Travail Environnement, UMRESTTE UMR T 9405, 8 Avenue Rockefeller, 69008, Lyon, France.
- Hospices civils de Lyon, service de médecine et santé au travail, Lyon, France.
| | - P Sarnin
- Univ Lyon, Université Lumière Lyon 2, GREPS - EA 4163 (Groupe de recherche en psychologie sociale), Lyon, France
| | - S Rouat
- Univ Lyon, Université Lumière Lyon 2, GREPS - EA 4163 (Groupe de recherche en psychologie sociale), Lyon, France
| | - J Péron
- Univ Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Laboratoire de Biométrie et Biologie Evolutive LBBE - UMR 5558, Lyon, France
- Service d'oncologie médicale. Institut de Cancérologie des Hospices Civils de Lyon (IC-HCL), Pierre-Bénite, France
| | - G Kok
- Department of Work and Social Psychology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - L Letrilliart
- Univ Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Health Services and Performance Research, HESPER Université Lyon 2, Lyon, France
- Univ Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Collège Universitaire de médecine générale, 8 Avenue Rockefeller, 69008, Lyon, France
| | - M Lamort-Bouché
- Univ Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Unité mixte de recherche Epidémiologique et de Surveillance Transport Travail Environnement, UMRESTTE UMR T 9405, 8 Avenue Rockefeller, 69008, Lyon, France
- Univ Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Collège Universitaire de médecine générale, 8 Avenue Rockefeller, 69008, Lyon, France
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Hutting N, Detaille SI, Heerkens YF, Engels JA, Staal JB, Nijhuis-van der Sanden MWG. Experiences of Participants in a Self-Management Program for Employees with Complaints of the Arm, Neck or Shoulder (CANS): A Mixed Methods Study. JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL REHABILITATION 2017; 27:35-48. [PMID: 26875155 PMCID: PMC5306216 DOI: 10.1007/s10926-016-9630-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Purpose To investigate the experiences of participants of a self-management program for employees with complaints of the arm, neck or shoulder (CANS). The program consisted of six group sessions combined with an eHealth module. Methods Semi-structured interviews with the first 31 consecutive participants of the intervention group participating in a randomized controlled trial. Participants were interviewed after their last group session. Semi-structured interviews were guided by an interview guide and audio-recorded. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis and the emerging themes were discussed. All participants in the intervention group were asked about their experiences with a questionnaire at three (n = 58) and 12-months (n = 53) follow-up. Results Most participants appreciated the diversity of the program and benefited from the interaction with their peers. The eHealth module, although not used by everyone, was generally experienced as positive, especially the section with the physical exercises. Participants obtained more insight into their complaints and increased awareness, which contributed to the acceptance of and coping with the complaints. There was also criticism about the content of the program and the lack of a follow-up session. Results of the questionnaires showed that participants had a high level of satisfaction. Conclusions In general, the intervention fitted the needs of employees with CANS. Participants obtained more knowledge and insight into their complaints, as well as increased awareness; all this contributed to a behavioral change and improved coping. Many participants made changes at work and during their leisure time, whereas some felt that continuing their 'changed' behavior would be a challenge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan Hutting
- Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, IQ Healthcare, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
- Research Group Occupation and Health, Faculty of Health and Social Studies, HAN University of Applied Sciences, PO Box 6960, 6503 GL, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
| | - Sarah I Detaille
- Research Group Occupation and Health, Faculty of Health and Social Studies, HAN University of Applied Sciences, PO Box 6960, 6503 GL, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- HAN Seneca, Expertise Centre for Sports, Work and Health, HAN University of Applied Sciences, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Yvonne F Heerkens
- Research Group Occupation and Health, Faculty of Health and Social Studies, HAN University of Applied Sciences, PO Box 6960, 6503 GL, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Josephine A Engels
- Research Group Occupation and Health, Faculty of Health and Social Studies, HAN University of Applied Sciences, PO Box 6960, 6503 GL, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - J Bart Staal
- Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, IQ Healthcare, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Research Group Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation, Faculty of Health and Social Studies, HAN University of Applied Sciences, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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