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Lee J, Lin JH, Bao SS, Robertson MM. Work from home: Facilitators for an effective ergonomic work system. APPLIED ERGONOMICS 2024; 118:104276. [PMID: 38569239 DOI: 10.1016/j.apergo.2024.104276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Revised: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
Previous studies on Human Factors and Ergonomics (HFE) have primarily examined the impact of Work-From-Home (WFH) on worker health and well-being, yet little research has examined the optimal implementation process of WFH programs. Work systems perspective suggests that organizational policies, leadership, and psychological factors collectively influence the success of organizational change efforts. Our study explored the roles of managerial/supervisory, psychological, and organizational policy factors in facilitating the relationship between employees' HFE awareness and their acceptance and satisfaction with the WFH arrangement. Using data from 3195 knowledge workers in the US who use computers as their primary work tool and have worked from home at least one day in the past 30 days, we employed structural equation modeling to test our hypotheses. Transformational HFE leadership and employees' general self-efficacy are pivotal in implementing ergonomic WFH arrangements. The combination of employees' HFE awareness, transformational HFE leadership, and adequate levels of self-efficacy may foster positive process outcomes (e.g., readiness for WFH arrangement, workspace design satisfaction) in WFH arrangements. Efforts that are coordinated across organizational levels determine the effectiveness of organizational change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Lee
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, USA
| | - Jia-Hua Lin
- Safety & Health Assessment & Research for Prevention (SHARP) at Washington State Department of Labor and Industries, Olympia, WA, USA; University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
| | - Stephen S Bao
- Safety & Health Assessment & Research for Prevention (SHARP) at Washington State Department of Labor and Industries, Olympia, WA, USA; University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Michelle M Robertson
- Office Ergonomics Research Committee (OERC), USA; Northeastern University, Boston, MA, USA
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Ezeilo CO, Green-McKenzie J. The Covid-19 Pandemic and The Future of Work. J Occup Environ Med 2024; 66:e245-e251. [PMID: 38531821 DOI: 10.1097/jom.0000000000003107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The "future of work" refers to workplace modifications projected to occur following large scale events impacting workforce health and safety such as pandemics, technological advancements, or economic shifts. This paper examines the influence of the COVID-19 pandemic on the future of work. METHODS The electronic databases PubMed, Google Scholar, and Scopus were explored using search terms such as "post-pandemic," "working force," and "future of work" to retrieve papers published between 2000 and 2023. RESULTS The main characteristics of the future of work modification revealed are blurring of work-home boundaries, increase in telework and the gig economy, demand for artificial intelligence, smart working, quiet hiring, diversity and inclusion, and algocratic governance. Needed skills include virtual collaboration capability, cross-cultural competency, computational thinking, news media literacy, transdisciplinarity, sense making, and focusing on mental health and well-being. CONCLUSIONS Organizations are remodeling workforces to meet employee, employer, regulatory, and market expectations to adapt to future workplace needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chidimma Ogechukwu Ezeilo
- From the Johns Hopkins University, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland (C.O.E.); University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (J.G.-M.); and Leonard Davis Institute for Health Economics, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (J.G.-M.)
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Tobin SY, Halliday TM, Shoaf K, Burns RD, Baron KG. Associations of Anxiety, Insomnia, and Physical Activity during the COVID-19 Pandemic. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2024; 21:428. [PMID: 38673339 PMCID: PMC11050371 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph21040428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2024] [Revised: 03/26/2024] [Accepted: 03/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Anxiety, insomnia, and physical activity (PA) are interrelated, but the bi-directional relationships between these three variables are not well understood. Less is known of these relationships in settings of disrupted daily activities and acute stress. This study aimed to characterize and examine relationships between insomnia, anxiety, and PA throughout the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic, when many lifestyle behaviors were disrupted. METHODS Participants comprised a convenience sample of 204 adults (55.4% female; 43.85 ± 15.85 years old) who completed the Generalized Anxiety Disorder Questionnaire (GAD-7), Insomnia Severity Index (ISI), and the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) at three time points through the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic. A cross-lagged panel model was used to evaluate these variables' concurrent, autoregressive, and cross-lagged relationships across time. Follow-up dynamic panel modeling using maximum likelihood and structural equation modeling was employed. RESULTS Approximately 64% of participants reported their work/occupation as affected by the pandemic. At baseline, associations between anxiety and insomnia were observed (β-coefficient: 15.87; p < 0.001). Insomnia was a positive future predictor of anxiety (ISI time point 2: 7.9 ± 5.6 points; GAD-7 at time point 3: 4.1 ± 4.2 points; β-coefficient: 0.16; p < 0.01). No associations were observed between PA and anxiety or insomnia (all p > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Insomnia and anxiety were interrelated, and effects were cross-lagged. These data can inform future work focused on improving anxiety in settings of acute stress and disruptions to daily life, such as changes in occupational structure and stability. Specifically, targeting sleep parameters may be of interest to elicit downstream positive health behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Selene Y. Tobin
- Department of Health and Kinesiology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA; (T.M.H.); (R.D.B.)
| | - Tanya M. Halliday
- Department of Health and Kinesiology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA; (T.M.H.); (R.D.B.)
| | - Kimberley Shoaf
- Department of Family and Preventative Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA; (K.S.); (K.G.B.)
| | - Ryan D. Burns
- Department of Health and Kinesiology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA; (T.M.H.); (R.D.B.)
| | - Kelly G. Baron
- Department of Family and Preventative Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA; (K.S.); (K.G.B.)
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Iwanaga K, Chan F, Tansey TN, Wu JR, Wehman P, Medina M, Kaya C. Demographic covariates and vocational rehabilitation services as predictors of employment outcomes of people with physical disabilities: a hierarchical logistic regression analysis. Disabil Rehabil 2024:1-7. [PMID: 38356264 DOI: 10.1080/09638288.2024.2312259] [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: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Stable employment is essential for the health, psychosocial, and financial well-being of people with physical disabilities (PwPD). Unfortunately, the low employment rate for PwPD in the U.S. exposes them to adverse effects of unemployment, including depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and physical pain. Helping PwPD find gainful employment will improve their general health and well-being. However, few empirical studies examine factors affecting the employment outcomes of PwPD. This study aims to examine the relationship between demographic covariates, vocational rehabilitation (VR) services, and employment outcomes of PwPD. MATERIALS AND METHODS This secondary data analysis study includes 17,598 PwPD from the U.S. Department of Education's Rehabilitation Services Administration's Case Service Report (RSA-911) dataset. Our analysical approach was hierarchical logistic regression analysis. RESULTS For VR services, workplace support, technology support, job placement assistance, and VR counseling significantly contribute to predicting employment outcomes for PwPD. Even after entering VR services, the demographic variables (age, race, education, referral sources, low-income, long-term unemployment, and disability significancy) were still significant predictors of employment. CONCLUSIONS Findings from this study can be used by state VR counselors and other disability service providers to plan and select effective employment-related interventions to improve the employment outcomes of PwPD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kanako Iwanaga
- Department of Rehabilitation Counseling, College of Health Professions, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Fong Chan
- Department of Rehabilitation Psychology and Special Education, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Timothy N Tansey
- Department of Rehabilitation Psychology and Special Education, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Jia Rung Wu
- Department of Counselor Education, Northeastern Illinois University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Paul Wehman
- Department of Rehabilitation Research and Training Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Maria Medina
- Department of Rehabilitation Research and Training Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Cahit Kaya
- Department of Rehabilitation Services and Counseling, University of TX-Rio Grande Valley, Brownsville, TX, USA
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Streit JMK, Felknor SA, Edwards NT, Caruso DL, Howard J. Preparing the occupational safety and health workforce for future disruptions. Am J Ind Med 2024; 67:55-72. [PMID: 37963719 PMCID: PMC10872571 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.23548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Revised: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/29/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite some emerging lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic, evidence suggests the world remains largely underprepared for-and vulnerable to-similar threats in the future. METHODS In 2022, researchers at the US National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) led a team of volunteers to explore how future disruptions, such as pandemics, might impact work and the practice of occupational safety and health (OSH). This qualitative inquiry was framed as a strategic foresight project and included a series of activities designed to help better understand, prepare for, and influence the future. RESULTS Findings from a thorough search for indicators of change were synthesized into nine critical uncertainties and four plausible future scenarios. Analysis of these outputs elucidated three key challenges that may impact OSH research, policy, and practice during future disruptions: (1) data access, (2) direct-to-worker communications, and (3) mis- and dis-information management. CONCLUSIONS A robust strategic response is offered to address these challenges, and next steps are proposed to enhance OSH preparedness and institutionalize strategic foresight across the OSH community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica M K Streit
- Office of Research Integration, Office of the Director, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Sarah A Felknor
- Office of Research Integration, Office of the Director, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Nicole T Edwards
- Office of Research Integration, Office of the Director, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Morgantown, West Virginia, USA
| | - David L Caruso
- Western States Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Denver, Colorado, USA
| | - John Howard
- Office of the Director, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
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Wells J, Scheibein F, Pais L, Rebelo dos Santos N, Dalluege CA, Czakert JP, Berger R. A Systematic Review of the Impact of Remote Working Referenced to the Concept of Work-Life Flow on Physical and Psychological Health. Workplace Health Saf 2023; 71:507-521. [PMID: 37387511 PMCID: PMC10612377 DOI: 10.1177/21650799231176397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND COVID-19 accelerated the adoption of remote working in which employers' obligations for employees' health and well-being extended into the home. This paper reports on a systematic review of the health impacts of remote working within the context of COVID-19 and discusses the implications of these impacts for the future role of the occupational health nurse. METHOD The review protocol was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42021258517) and followed the PRISMA guidelines. The review covered 2020-2021 to capture empirical studies of remote working during the COVID-19 pandemic, their physical and psychological impacts and mediating factors. RESULTS Eight hundred and thirty articles were identified. After applying the inclusion criteria, a total of 34 studies were reviewed. Most studies showed low to very low strength of evidence using the GRADE approach. A minority of studies had high strength of evidence. These focused on the reduced risk of infection and negative effects in terms of reduced physical activity, increased sedentary activity, and increased screen time. CONCLUSION/APPLICATION TO PRACTICE The synergy of work and personal well-being with the accelerated expansion of remote working suggests a more active role in the lives of workers within the home setting on the part of occupational health nurses. That role relates to how employees organize their relationship to work and home life, promoting positive lifestyles while mitigating adverse impacts of remote working on personal well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Wells
- School of Health Sciences, South East Technological University
| | | | - Leonor Pais
- Center for Research in Neuropsychology and Cognitive and Behavioral Intervention (CINEICC), Faculty of Psychology and Education Sciences, University of Coimbra
| | - Nuno Rebelo dos Santos
- Research Centre in Education and Psychology (CIEP-UÉ), School of Social Sciences, Universidade de Évora
| | | | | | - Rita Berger
- Facultat de Psicologia, Universitat de Barcelona
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Shih KK, Anderson A, Dai J, Fellman B, Rozman de Moraes A, Stanton P, Nelson C, DeLa Cruz V, Bruera E. Hybrid Work from Home Clinical Academic Environment: A One-Year Follow-Up Survey of Attitudes and Beliefs of Members of a Department of Palliative Care, Rehabilitation, and Integrative Medicine. J Palliat Med 2023; 26:342-352. [PMID: 36108159 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2022.0203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Context: Palliative, Rehabilitation, and Integrative Medicine (PRIM) department members anonymously reported a positive experience with work from home (WFH) two months after its rapid pandemic transition in March 2020. Data are limited on the stability of such preferences and experiences over time. Objectives: The objectives of this study were to survey the attitudes and beliefs of PRIM employees toward remote work 16 months after the start of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic since vaccines and to determine changes in perceptions of WFH. Methods: All 138 PRIM employees were invited to participate in an anonymous survey from mid-July to mid-August 2021. The 30-question survey included demographics, perceptions toward WFH, and the pandemic. Results: One hundred fifteen (83%) employees completed the survey: 29 (74%) research, 62 (83%) clinicians, and 24 (100%) administrative personnel. Most were female (76%), 30-59 years old (88%), PRIM employees before May 2020 (89%), shared office space (52%), and had received either first or second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine (88%). Overall experience (86%) and emotional response (74%) with WFH were positive and not significantly different from 2020 (p = 0.128 and 0.782, respectively). Positive experience was associated with having adequate equipment (p = 0.002), perception of productivity (p = 0.002), financial advantage (p = 0.002), and time demands caring for dependents (p = 0.038). Clinicians reported less positive response (78%, p = 0.002) and less productivity (49%, p = 0.002) with WFH and higher level of stress (54%, p = 0.026) since COVID-19. Employees continued to support WFH permanently (79%) for two or more days/week (82%). There was continued increased emotional exhaustion (71%) similar to 2020 (p = 0.868), and being asked to work partially or completely from home permanently was favored by 64% versus 97% and 96% of clinicians, research, and administrative, respectively (p = 0.002). Conclusions: Support for WFH was sustained a year later and after three pandemic waves. These findings serve as a model for future rapid work transitions and can help elucidate factors associated with stress and emotional exhaustion in a new post-COVID-19 work environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaoswi Karina Shih
- Department of Palliative, Rehabilitation, and Integrative Medicine and The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Aimee Anderson
- Department of Palliative, Rehabilitation, and Integrative Medicine and The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Jianliang Dai
- Department of Biostatistics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Bryan Fellman
- Department of Biostatistics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Aline Rozman de Moraes
- Department of Palliative, Rehabilitation, and Integrative Medicine and The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Penny Stanton
- Department of Palliative, Rehabilitation, and Integrative Medicine and The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Christina Nelson
- Department of Palliative, Rehabilitation, and Integrative Medicine and The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Vera DeLa Cruz
- Department of Palliative, Rehabilitation, and Integrative Medicine and The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Eduardo Bruera
- Department of Palliative, Rehabilitation, and Integrative Medicine and The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
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Cardoso Pinto AM, Patel SB, Stephens M, Guha P, Baptista A, Smith S. Developing as health professionals through community volunteering: exploring the value of a partnership between medical students and primary schools online compared to in-person. BMC MEDICAL EDUCATION 2023; 23:56. [PMID: 36694256 PMCID: PMC9873211 DOI: 10.1186/s12909-023-04032-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Imperial College Teddy Bear Hospital (ICSM-TBH) is a student-led volunteering group, which uses interactive, play-based teaching to educate school pupils aged 5-7 years about healthy lifestyles and healthcare. During the COVID-19 pandemic, volunteering sessions shifted online. The aim of this study was to compare the value of online and in-person ICSM-TBH volunteering for volunteers and school pupils. METHODS Undergraduate university students at Imperial College London (medicine can be taken as a first degree in the UK) who volunteered with ICSM-TBH between 2019 and 22 were invited to complete an anonymous online questionnaire evaluating their experiences of volunteering online and in-person through Likert-scale questions. Those who completed the questionnaire were also invited to an interview. Teachers who hosted online ICSM-TBH sessions were also invited to an in-person interview, exploring their view of their pupils' experiences with these sessions. Questionnaire results were analysed through descriptive statistics. Interviews were analysed through inductive thematic analysis. RESULTS Thirty-two university students completed the questionnaire. Of these, 9 experienced both in-person and online volunteering, all of whom preferred in-person volunteering. For those who only volunteered in-person, 92% reported that ICSM-TBH sessions were a positive experience, compared to 100% who volunteered online; 92% in person volunteers agreed or strongly agreed that ICSM-TBH volunteering in person improved their mood, compared to 89% online; and 100% agreed or strongly agreed that ICSM-TBH volunteering in person helped them feel part of a community, compared to 84% online. A total of 12 volunteers and 4 teachers were interviewed, from whom five themes emerged: interaction and engagement (interaction and engagement between pupils and volunteers was more readily achieved in-person); personal and professional development (both online and in-person sessions enabled volunteers to gain valuable skills); community and social (greater sense of community was established in-person); emotional wellbeing and enjoyment (both modalities were enjoyed by volunteers and pupils); and workload (online sessions were more convenient for volunteers but with risk of screen fatigue). CONCLUSION Overall, both in-person and online volunteering were of substantial benefit to volunteers and school pupils. However, most teachers and volunteers preferred in-person volunteering.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sajan B Patel
- School of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | | | - Payal Guha
- School of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Ana Baptista
- Medical Education Research Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Susan Smith
- Medical Education Research Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK
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Zhang JY, Jabs F, Brown NB, Milani S, Brotto LA. The Impact of Loosening COVID-19 Restrictions and Live-in Partner Status on Sexual and Mental Health in a Canadian Sample. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SEXUAL HEALTH : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE WORLD ASSOCIATION FOR SEXUAL HEALTH 2023; 35:139-151. [PMID: 38596767 PMCID: PMC10903576 DOI: 10.1080/19317611.2022.2163446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2022] [Revised: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Objectives We examined changes in frequency of sexual behaviors, dyadic sexual desire, relationship satisfaction, and COVID-19 stress in Canadians across the pandemic, considering partner status. Methods Participants completed online questionnaires. Results Participants with live-in partners and single participants decreased in dyadic sexual behaviors. In August-September 2020, participants with live-in partners engaged in more dyadic sexual behaviors than single participants. In November 2021, all partnered participants engaged in more dyadic sexual behaviors than single participants. Decreases in COVID-19 stress were observed. Conclusions Findings suggest that despite decreases in COVID-19 stress, there may be long-lasting pandemic impacts on sexual behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Yu Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Faith Jabs
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Natalie B. Brown
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Sonia Milani
- Department of Psychology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Lori A. Brotto
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
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Rojanasarot S, Bhattacharyya SK, Edwards N. Productivity loss and productivity loss costs to United States employers due to priority conditions: a systematic review. J Med Econ 2023; 26:262-270. [PMID: 36695516 DOI: 10.1080/13696998.2023.2172282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
AIMS To summarize published studies evaluating productivity loss and productivity loss costs associated with cancer, chronic lung disease, depression, pain, and cardiometabolic disease among US employees. MATERIALS AND METHODS A PubMed search from the past 10 years was conducted using the terms productivity, absenteeism, presenteeism, cancer, bronchitis, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, depression, pain, heart disease, hypertension, and diabetes (limited to English-language publications and studies of adults aged 19-64). Study endpoints included annual incremental time (work hours lost and Work Productivity and Impairment [WPAI] questionnaire overall work impairment) and monetary estimates of productivity loss. Studies were critically appraised using a modified Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine (OCEBM) Quality Rating Scheme. RESULTS Of 2,037 records identified from the search, 183 studies were included. The most common observed condition leading to productivity loss was pain (24%), followed by cancer (22%), chronic lung disease (17%), cardiometabolic disease (16%), and depression (16%). Nearly three-quarters of the studies (n = 133, 72.7%) were case-control/retrospective cohort studies (OCEBM quality rating 3); the remainder were case series/cross-sectional studies (n = 28, 15.3%; quality rating 4), randomized clinical trials (n = 18, 9.8%; quality rating 1); and controlled trials without randomization/prospective comparative cohort trials (n = 4, 2.2%; quality rating 2). Samples sizes ranged from 18 patients to millions of patients for studies using the Medical Expenditure Panel Survey (MEPS). Most studies found employees lost up to 80 annual incremental work hours; employees with cancer and cardiometabolic disease had the greatest number of work hours lost. Overall percentage work impairment ranged from 10% to 70% and was higher for pain and depression. Annual incremental costs of lost work productivity ranged from $100 to $10,000 and were higher for cancer, pain, and depression. LIMITATIONS Study heterogeneity. CONCLUSIONS Despite some gaps in evidence for the cost of productivity loss, sufficient data highlight the substantial employer burden of lost productivity among priority conditions.
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Pandemic Imposed Remote Work Arrangements and Resultant Work-Life Integration, Future of Work and Role of Leaders—A Qualitative Study of Indian Millennial Workers. ADMINISTRATIVE SCIENCES 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/admsci12040162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The unprecedented nature and scale of the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in mass lockdowns around the world, and millions of people were forced to work remotely for months, confined in their homes. Our study was aimed at understanding how pandemic-imposed remote work arrangements affected millennial workers in India. With signs of the pandemic slowing down, but with the likelihood of organizations retaining some of these work arrangements, the paper also explores how these are likely to affect the future of work, and the role that organizations and leaders have in managing the workforce in the ‘new normal’. The study follows an interpretivist paradigm and qualitative research approach using the narrative method as a key research strategy. The data was collected using in-depth interviews from Indian millennial respondents employed in both private and government sectors. The findings show a kind of work-life integration for the workers as a result of the pandemic-imposed remote work arrangements. This integration has been caused by four different types of issues that have also emerged as four major themes which have resulted in a further 10 sub-themes. The four major themes identified in this research are Managerial Issues, Work Issues, Logistical Issues, and Psychological Issues.
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Akbani U, Vasant DH. Regional survey of foundation trainee doctors' views on a career in gastroenterology: implications for diversity and inclusion. Frontline Gastroenterol 2022; 14:179-180. [PMID: 37056325 PMCID: PMC10086705 DOI: 10.1136/flgastro-2022-102232] [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: 05/28/2022] [Accepted: 09/10/2022] [Indexed: 04/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective We aimed to establish the perception of foundation doctors (FDs) towards gastroenterology, focusing on identifying determinants which make the career desirable or undesirable between genders, and to recognise factors to increase diversity in recruitment. Method An electronic survey was circulated to Northwest of England FDs, categorical variables and data were analysed using χ2 test including comparisons by gender and exposure to gastroenterology either as an undergraduate or FD. Results 133 responses were received (males 55.6%, 37 foundation year 1 (FY1) doctors, 85 FY2 doctors and 11 FY3 doctors). Four (3.0%) FDs were considering a career in gastroenterology. Gastroenterology was perceived positively by 72 (54.1%) of FDs. Significant differences were found between genders in the importance of the following factors influencing specialty selection; patient-centred care (female 52.5% vs male 25.7%, p=0.01), good mentorship (female 67.8% vs male 45.9, p=0.012), income (female 33.9% vs male 59.5%, p=0.003) and length of training (female 27.1% vs male 52.7%, p=0.003). The male predominant existing workforce (female 27.1% vs male 6.8%, p=0.001), and requirement to be a medical registrar (female 74.6% vs male 56.8%, p=0.033) were negatively perceived aspects of gastroenterology among female FDs. Most FDs (female 80.5%, male 70.7%) indicated increased acceptability of less than full time training and greater flexibility may attract more females to gastroenterology. Conclusion Increased flexibility in training and greater postfoundation exposure and mentorship may improve diversity within the specialty. The role of general medicine poses significant concern for FDs and may need further evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Umair Akbani
- Gastroenterology department, Wythenshawe Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Dipesh Harshvadan Vasant
- Gastroenterology department, Wythenshawe Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
- Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Gastroenterology, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
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Kuśnierz C, Rogowska AM, Chilicka K, Pavlova I, Ochnik D. Associations of Work-Family Conflict with Family-Specific, Work-Specific, and Well-Being-Related Variables in a Sample of Polish and Ukrainian Adults during the Second Wave of the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Cross-Sectional Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph191710954. [PMID: 36078672 PMCID: PMC9517904 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191710954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Revised: 08/27/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
The conflict between work and family demands increased during the COVID-19 pandemic due to changes in lifestyle related to the lockdown. This study examines the associations between work-family conflict (WFC) and family-work conflict (FWC) with work-specific, family-specific, and well-being-related variables during the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. The results may be used in practice to improve the well-being of employees by adjusting home-based work and family areas of life to dynamic changes during the pandemic. The sample of 736 adults from Poland (53.26%) and Ukraine (46.74%), aged between 19 and 72 (M = 39.40; SD = 10.80), participated in the study. The cross-sectional study was performed using an online survey, including sociodemographic variables, measures of WFC, time pressure, remote work assessment (RWAS), physical health (GSRH), life satisfaction (SWLS), perceived stress (PSS-10), anxiety (GAD-7), and depression (PHQ-9). This study showed numerous inter-group differences in all variables across the country, gender, relationship status, parenthood, caring for children under 12, and remote working status. A high WFC is more likely among Polish workers (than Ukrainian workers), people with a low level of self-perceived time pressure, and high symptoms of stress. Caring for children under 12, low self-perceived time pressure, and high stress can predict FWC. Various paths lead from perceived stress via WFC and FWC, physical health, anxiety, and depression to life satisfaction, as suggested by the structural equation modeling analysis. Parents of children under 12 and women are the most vulnerable groups for increased WFC, FWC, and worse mental health and well-being. Prevention programs should focus on reducing stress, anxiety, and work demands in these adult populations. A unique contribution to the existing knowledge revealed patterns of associations between WFC and FWC in relation to well-being dimensions in a cross-cultural context during the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cezary Kuśnierz
- Faculty of Physical Education and Physiotherapy, Opole University of Technology, 45-758 Opole, Poland
| | | | - Karolina Chilicka
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Opole, 45-040 Opole, Poland
| | - Iuliia Pavlova
- Department of Theory and Methods of Physical Culture, Lviv State University of Physical Culture, 79007 Lviv, Ukraine
| | - Dominika Ochnik
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Technology, 40-555 Katowice, Poland
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Gilson N, Coenen P, Hallman D, Holtermann A, Mathiassen SE, Straker L. Postpandemic hybrid work: opportunities and challenges for physical activity and public health. Br J Sports Med 2022; 56:1203-1204. [PMID: 35710111 DOI: 10.1136/bjsports-2022-105664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas Gilson
- School of Human Movement and Nutrition Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - P Coenen
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - David Hallman
- Centre for Musculoskeletal Research, Department of Occupational Health Sciences and Psychology, The University of Gävle, Gävle, Sweden
| | - Andreas Holtermann
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Svend Erik Mathiassen
- Centre for Musculoskeletal Research, Department of Occupational Health Sciences and Psychology, The University of Gävle, Gävle, Sweden
| | - Leon Straker
- School of Allied Health and enAble Institute, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
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Non-Standard Employment and Unemployment during the COVID-19 Crisis: Economic and Health Findings from a Six-Country Survey Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19105865. [PMID: 35627402 PMCID: PMC9140645 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19105865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2022] [Revised: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/07/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 crisis is a global event that has created and amplified social inequalities, including an already existing and steadily increasing problem of employment and income insecurity and erosion of workplace rights, affecting workers globally. The aim of this exploratory study was to review employment-related determinants of health and health protection during the pandemic, or more specifically, to examine several links between non-standard employment, unemployment, economic, health, and safety outcomes during the COVID-19 pandemic in Sweden, Belgium, Spain, Canada, the United States, and Chile, based on an online survey conducted from November 2020 to June 2021. The study focused on both non-standard workers and unemployed workers and examined worker outcomes in the context of current type and duration of employment arrangements, as well as employment transitions triggered by the COVID-19 crisis. The results suggest that COVID-19-related changes in non-standard worker employment arrangements, or unemployment, are related to changes in work hours, income, and benefits, as well as the self-reported prevalence of suffering from severe to extreme anxiety or depression. The results also suggest a link between worker type, duration of employment arrangements, or unemployment, and the ability to cover regular expenses during the pandemic. Additionally, the findings indicate that the type and duration of employment arrangements are related to the provision of personal protective equipment or other COVID-19 protection measures. This study provides additional evidence that workers in non-standard employment and the unemployed have experienced numerous and complex adverse effects of the pandemic and require additional protection through tailored pandemic responses and recovery strategies.
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16
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COVID-19 Anxiety as a Moderator of the Relationship between Organizational Change and Perception of Organizational Politics in Forestry Public Sector. FORESTS 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/f13020356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
In addition to an outstanding commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals’ (SDG) agenda to good governance (goal no. 16), there is an argument that the SDGs can only be achieved through good governance with strong political institutions and processes. In Indonesia, a new era in politics has been marked with the new leadership of Joko Widodo (the current Indonesian President) who has a vision to reform the Indonesian bureaucracy. One of the bureaucratic reform implementations is the merging of the Ministry of Forestry and the Ministry of Environment into the Ministry of Environment and Forestry (MoE). In this kind of organizational change, employees may have increased perceptions of organizational politics and feelings of uncertainty and anxiety. This effect is suspected to be exacerbated by the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. This article, therefore, aims to investigate the effects of organizational change in the public sector. Based on a survey of 112 state civil apparatuses in the forestry sector in Indonesia, we found that organizational change is positively related to employees’ perception of organizational politics. Nevertheless, our most intriguing finding is that the COVID pandemic situation has decreased employees’ perception of organizational politics. This is because political behaviors are difficult to perform in virtual working settings due to reduced face-to-face interaction and limited non-verbal cues.
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17
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Analysis of the Impact of the COVID-19 Crisis on the Hungarian Employees. SUSTAINABILITY 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/su14041990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The economic crisis in the wake of the coronavirus epidemic is affecting the lives, jobs and incomes of a lot of people. Certain sectors of the economy have come to a standstill or stalled for a time, causing many to lose their jobs and be forced to pursue other career options than originally planned. The COVID-19 pandemic caused a deep economic crisis that caused workers to feel insecure, which also had a negative impact on the lives and characteristics of individuals at work. In the course of our research, we conducted a survey of employees in small and medium-sized enterprises in Hungary in order to find out how the coronavirus crisis affected them. In Hungary, the sectors most affected by the epidemic (e.g., hospitality, tourism, automotive) had an intense impact, as the consequences of restrictions on mobility and social distance emerged in the very early stages of the crisis. The survey was conducted in July 2021 after the end of the second wave of the epidemic, with a total of 613 participants. Our results confirmed that the coronavirus crisis had a significant impact on the respondents’ feelings of job insecurity and financial situation. There is a significant connection between the downsizing of Hungarian small and medium-sized enterprises and the feeling of job insecurity among employees. There was also a significant link between the organizational measures taken against the crisis and the financial situation of the employees. Thus, based on the results obtained, it can be concluded that the coronavirus crisis has had a negative impact on the lives of individuals through the workplaces.
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Tamers SL, Streit JMK, Chosewood C. Promising Occupational Safety, Health, and Well-Being Approaches to Explore the Future of Work in the USA: An Editorial. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:1745. [PMID: 35162768 PMCID: PMC8834959 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19031745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
The future of work continues to undergo profound and fundamental changes in response to shifting social, technological, economic, environmental, and political contexts [...].
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara L. Tamers
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, 395 E Street SW, Washington, DC 20201, USA
| | - Jessica M. K. Streit
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, 1090 Tusculum Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45226, USA;
| | - Casey Chosewood
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, 1600 Clifton Rd., Atlanta, GA 30329, USA;
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