Journal Of Occupational Rehabilitation[JOURNAL]
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200 papers
Wellbeing and the Lived Experience of Injured Workers Following Finalisation of a Workers' Compensation Claim.
Weir J, Fary R, Lee S … +6 more , Mitchell T, Johnston V, Wyatt M, Guthrie R, Myers B, Beales D
J Occup Rehabil · 2026 Mar · PMID 39755868 · Full text
PURPOSE: Workers' compensation claims can negatively affect the wellbeing of injured workers. For some, these negative effects continue beyond finalisation of the workers' compensation claim. It is unclear what factors i...
PURPOSE: Workers' compensation claims can negatively affect the wellbeing of injured workers. For some, these negative effects continue beyond finalisation of the workers' compensation claim. It is unclear what factors influence wellbeing following finalisation of a workers' compensation claim. Therefore, the aim of this study was to explore wellbeing through the lived experience of individuals who have finalised a workers' compensation claim in the state of Western Australia. METHODS: A qualitative study with individual, in-depth, semi-structured interviews was performed (n = 20, 55% female, average claim length 22.9 months, average time since claim end 33.4 months). Claim finalisation modes included full medical recovery, claim settlement with permanent impairment, direct settlement with the insurer and settlement with the insurer facilitated by a lawyer. The interview schedule was informed by a previous scoping review and cross-sectional survey completed by this research team. Qualitative data were analysed utilising a reflexive, interpretative phenomenological analysis approach. RESULTS: Five superordinate and their associated subordinate themes were identified; (1) The role of support; (2) Stigma and discrimination; (3) A new normal; (4) The importance of information; and (5) Recommended resources. CONCLUSIONS: Injured workers experience a range of outcomes related to their wellbeing and employment following the finalisation of their workers' compensation claim. Based on their experiences, resources to facilitate a transition and adjustment to life following a claim have been suggested by injured workers, including information regarding seeking employment, seeking welfare support, educational materials regarding future expectations, and individualised support care packages.
What are the Perceptions and Lived Experiences of Canadian Injured Workers about the Provision of Physiotherapy Services using Telerehabilitation?
Hudon A, Miciak M, Slade T … +9 more , Lovo S, Whittaker JL, Côté D, Feldman DE, Kairy D, Laberge M, McKeen B, Cooper L, Gross DP
J Occup Rehabil · 2024 Dec · PMID 39674991 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: Despite evidence of efficacy, the effectiveness of telerehabilitation in real-world clinical settings is still largely unknown. Telerehabilitation requires a substantial transformation of the organization and de...
PURPOSE: Despite evidence of efficacy, the effectiveness of telerehabilitation in real-world clinical settings is still largely unknown. Telerehabilitation requires a substantial transformation of the organization and delivery of traditional services. Considering that a virtual setting can create unique challenges for providing physiotherapy services and given the physical and potential hands-on nature of evidence-based assessments and interventions, it is important to investigate what injured workers think of receiving physiotherapy care via telerehabilitation and to examine if rehabilitation needs are adequately met. METHODS: A qualitative interpretive description study was conducted to explore the perspectives and experiences of 17 injured workers receiving physiotherapy via telerehabilitation. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with participants from three provinces in Western Canada and analysed using thematic analysis. Qualitative rigour criteria of epistemological integrity, analytic logic, interpretive authority, and representative credibility were considered throughout this study. RESULTS: Implementation of telerehabilitation during the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in mixed perceptions from injured workers. Some viewed telerehabilitation as a resourceful option for providing services during the pandemic lockdown, resulting in maintained communications while overcoming barriers to services (e.g., rural/remote workers, transportation barriers, etc.). However, many thought telerehabilitation was inferior to in-person therapy for assessment and when 'hands-on' interaction was needed. Many believed a hybrid option may be ideal now that pandemic restrictions are lifted, with telerehabilitation supplementing in-person physiotherapy when needed. CONCLUSIONS: Telerehabilitation was viewed as a resourceful option during the pandemic and in certain clinical situations (e.g., rural/remote). Workers should be able to make informed choices about service delivery format.
Obstacles, Self-Efficacy, and Strategies for Returning to Work after Experiencing Burnout: Paving the Path to Sustainable Reintegration.
Leblond J, Faurie I, Corbière M
J Occup Rehabil · 2026 Mar · PMID 39673643 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: The objective of this study is twofold: (1) to better understand the Return-to-Work (RTW) process of employees on sick leave due to burnout by evaluating RTW obstacles and self-efficacy to overcome them, and (2)...
PURPOSE: The objective of this study is twofold: (1) to better understand the Return-to-Work (RTW) process of employees on sick leave due to burnout by evaluating RTW obstacles and self-efficacy to overcome them, and (2) to investigate strategies implemented for maintaining employment following burnout. METHOD: Fifty-one participants completed the online questionnaire titled "Return-to-Work Obstacles and Self-Efficacy Scale (ROSES)", and two focus groups were conducted with employees returning to work after experiencing burnout. RESULTS: All the ROSES dimensions emerged as potential obstacles to returning to work after burnout. Several were particularly challenging to overcome, such as Fears of a relapse, Cognitive difficulties, and Loss of motivation to RTW. Qualitative analysis of verbatim from focus groups identified eight categories of strategies for overcoming these obstacles, such as Work involvement regulation strategies, Identity and anxiety regulation strategies, Seeking care and support from professionals, and Cognitive and metacognitive strategies, among the most often mentioned. CONCLUSION: These findings pave the way for a more detailed analysis of the perceived obstacles individuals face during their RTW after burnout. Furthermore, the identification of strategies to overcome these obstacles may prove beneficial not only for the sustainable RTW of individuals, but also for the professionals who support them.
Predicting Occupational Outcomes for Individuals with ADHD: The Role of Hyperactivity/Impulsivity and Executive Functioning.
Chan ESM, Langberg JM
J Occup Rehabil · 2026 Mar · PMID 39668306 · Full text
PURPOSE: The present study adds to the literature by evaluating the differential risk of ADHD symptom dimensions and executive functioning (EF; time management, organization, motivation) to key occupational outcomes. MET...
PURPOSE: The present study adds to the literature by evaluating the differential risk of ADHD symptom dimensions and executive functioning (EF; time management, organization, motivation) to key occupational outcomes. METHODS: Participants were adults (N = 100; 51% male) with ADHD working full-time between the ages of 19-30 (M = 26.61, SD = 2.28). Participants reported on their ADHD symptoms and EF as well as on five areas of occupational functioning (income, written warnings, boredom at work, satisfaction with coworkers and supervisors). RESULTS: Over and above medication status, sex, and age, path analyses revealed hyperactivity/impulsivity and time management were the most consistent predictors of outcomes. Higher levels of each predictor were associated with lower income, more written warnings, greater boredom at work, as well as lower satisfaction with coworkers and supervisors. Executive function difficulties with organization and motivation were risk factors for all evaluated outcomes, except written warnings. Higher levels of inattention symptoms were associated with more written warnings and lower satisfaction with coworkers. CONCLUSION: The present study is one of the first to document the differential risks of ADHD symptoms and EF to a comprehensive set of occupational functioning outcomes. Future research is needed to replicate the present findings and expand this line of work to identify factors that may protect against these ADHD-related risks on workplace success.
Validating the Core Set for Vocational Rehabilitation in a Population of Cancer Survivors: A Cross-Sectional Study.
Paltrinieri S, Pellegrini M, Costi S … +4 more , Fugazzaro S, Vicentini M, Mancuso P, Giorgi Rossi P
J Occup Rehabil · 2025 Dec · PMID 39663312 · Full text
PURPOSE: The Core Set for Vocational Rehabilitation (CS-VR), a checklist based on the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF), captures the work functioning of individuals requiring VR. B...
PURPOSE: The Core Set for Vocational Rehabilitation (CS-VR), a checklist based on the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF), captures the work functioning of individuals requiring VR. By listening to cancer survivors' experiences and stakeholders' perspectives, the CS-VR-Onco of 85 ICF-based categories was obtained. The aim of this study was to assess the concurrent validity of the CS-VR-Onco by measuring this tool's ability to detect differences among cancer survivors in terms of perceived return to work (RTW)-related difficulties. METHODS: A sample of 300 working-age individuals with a first diagnosis of cancer was selected through the local Cancer Registry. Of these 300, those employed individuals who had returned to work were deemed eligible. Through a guided interview, participants reported and described their perceived RTW-related difficulties using the terminology of the CS-VR-Onco. Frequencies and means were used to compare the results of (a) cancer survivors who reported having had difficulties with those who had not, and (b) cancer survivors who had undergone chemotherapy (CT) with those who had not. RESULTS: Of the 104 respondents, 35 cancer survivors (Group 1) reported having had RTW-related difficulties and CS-VR-Onco-described problems, while 54 reported no difficulties but did highlight some problems (Group 2), and 15 reported neither difficulties nor problems (Group 3). The categories of the CS-VR-Onco that were prioritized were similar across groups, but Group 1 had higher frequencies than did Group 2 + 3 in 69 categories out of 85. In the second comparison, 40 cancer survivors who had undergone CT had higher frequencies than did 64 cancer survivors who had not undergone CT, but this trend was not applicable to 23 categories of the CS-VR-Onco. Seven categories were not reported as problems by all participants. CONCLUSION: The CS-VR-Onco identified more problems in cancer survivors who reported RTW-related difficulties and differences between cancer survivors who had undergone CT and those who had not. These results contribute to assessing the preliminary validity of the tool.
Effectiveness and Characteristics of Work Participation Interventions for Adults with Musculoskeletal Upper Limb Conditions: A Systematic Review.
Newington L, Ceh D, Sandford F … +2 more , Parsons V, Madan I
J Occup Rehabil · 2025 Dec · PMID 39636456 · Full text
PURPOSE: To systematically identify and evaluate interventions to improve work participation for adults with upper limb musculoskeletal conditions, and explore contextual factors and mechanisms that suggest how the inter...
PURPOSE: To systematically identify and evaluate interventions to improve work participation for adults with upper limb musculoskeletal conditions, and explore contextual factors and mechanisms that suggest how the intervention is effective, for whom, and in what setting. METHODS: The review protocol was pre-registered with PROSPERO (CRD42023433216). Eligible studies met the following criteria. Population adults (aged ≥ 18 years), with musculoskeletal upper limb conditions including traumatic and non-traumatic presentations. Intervention strategies aimed at enhancing work participation. Outcomes measures including return to work, increased work duties or hours, and work functioning. Study design randomised and non-randomised experimental studies, mixed methods, qualitative studies, and case series. Two reviewers independently screened, extracted data, and completed quality appraisal. Interventions were described using TIDieR and the data presented as a narrative synthesis. RESULTS: Twenty-two studies were included. Interventions were categorised into three groups: multimodal or multidisciplinary (n = 13), ergonomic (n = 4), and exercise (n = 5). Eight interventions were primarily delivered in the workplace and 14 in healthcare settings. Four outcome domains were reported: return to work (n = 18), self-reported work function (n = 4), work productivity (n = 5), and work-related costs (n = 2). Only exercise interventions showed consistent statistically significant benefits. Heterogeneity in outcomes prevented formal meta-analysis. Only five studies were rated as high quality. CONCLUSIONS: There is insufficient evidence to recommend specific work participation interventions for adults with upper limb musculoskeletal systems. No studies explored the impact of Fit Notes or other formal work guidance documentation.
Successful Strategies for Occupational Health and Safety in Small and Medium Enterprises: Insights for a Sustainable Return to Work.
Nastasia I, Rives R
J Occup Rehabil · 2025 Dec · PMID 39616561 · Full text
PURPOSE: The objectives of this paper were to summarize successful strategies in occupational health and safety (OHS) management in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and to explore their potential applicability f...
PURPOSE: The objectives of this paper were to summarize successful strategies in occupational health and safety (OHS) management in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and to explore their potential applicability for disability management (DM) and return-to-work (RTW) after work-related injuries. METHODS: A scoping review was conducted, using a consensus-based iterative approach, and a consultation with stakeholders. Twelve databases were searched in collaboration with a specialized librarian, using keywords and combinations of terms. The reviewers identified pertinent articles, selected those which corresponded to the inclusion criteria, extracted data, and analyzed information using qualitative content analyses. A synthesis was presented to the stakeholders, and their comments on overall applicability of these strategies in the Quebec context of DM and RTW were detailed. RESULTS: A total of 638 references were retrieved from all sources, resulting in 37 scientific articles being analyzed. Four main strategies for improving OHS management in SMEs were identified: dissemination and exchange of information; transmission and acquisition of knowledge, skills, and abilities; using a participatory and collaborative approach; and considering the organizational context. Even if DM and sustainable RTW were sometimes mentioned by authors as important for OHS management in SMEs, specific strategies and implementation elements were not actually described by authors. However, different resources, structures, and activities, associated with one or more of the OHS management strategies described, through their different interactions between the various stakeholders, seem having the potential to act also in sustainable RTW. CONCLUSION: This review has provided an overview of strategies deployed to improve OSH in SME. The results invite stakeholders to a deep reflection on the potential application of such strategies to encompass sustainable RTW in SMEs.
Evaluation of the Acceptability and Feasibility of Stress Mitigation Education and Support Delivered via Telehealth for People After Road Traffic Musculoskeletal/Orthopedic Injury.
Sim A, McNeilage AG, Rebbeck T … +5 more , Sterling M, Nicholas M, Donovan S, Giummarra MJ, Ashton-James CE
J Occup Rehabil · 2026 Mar · PMID 39609347 · Full text
PURPOSE: To evaluate the acceptability and feasibility of a consumer co-designed telehealth intervention which aimed to reduce claimant distress by providing pain management strategies, informational and social support t...
PURPOSE: To evaluate the acceptability and feasibility of a consumer co-designed telehealth intervention which aimed to reduce claimant distress by providing pain management strategies, informational and social support to people who had made a compensation claim following road traffic musculoskeletal injury. METHODS: Eleven claimant participants who were at risk of a poor outcome completed the intervention in a one-on-one setting with the same clinician delivering the program across all sessions.They were interviewed about their experience (acceptability and feasibility including the use of telehealth). Clinicians who delivered the intervention also completed an anonymous feedback survey exploring their experiences delivering the intervention. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and thematic analysis was conducted. RESULTS: There were four themes which broadly related to the acceptability and feasibility of the intervention as well as the perceived benefits: (1) knowledge is power, (2) healing with social connection, (3) further along than I would have been, and (4) telehealth was acceptable and feasible. CONCLUSION: The delivery of a co-designed telehealth-delivered stress mitigation intervention to support people with a road traffic musculoskeletal injury was feasible to deliver and acceptable to people who were at risk of a poor outcome. Further research to evaluate the efficacy of the intervention on outcomes such as pain, self-efficacy, and claims costs are needed.
Uncovering Mental Health Profiles of Workers with a Physically Disabling Injury or Illness Using the Complete State Mental Health Framework.
Dobson KG, Chien YC, Carnide N … +3 more , Furlan AD, Smith PM, Mustard CA
J Occup Rehabil · 2025 Dec · PMID 39607657 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Complete mental health encompasses both mental illness (MI) symptoms and positive mental health (PMH). Distinct profiles of MI and PMH have not been explored among injured workers. This study describes latent...
BACKGROUND: Complete mental health encompasses both mental illness (MI) symptoms and positive mental health (PMH). Distinct profiles of MI and PMH have not been explored among injured workers. This study describes latent mental health profiles among workers with a disabling physical work injury/illness and identifies differences in sociodemographic and return-to-work factors, health correlates, and disability claim duration and cost between profiles. METHODS: 1132 Ontario workers with a physical work-related injury/illness who received lost-time claim benefits were surveyed 18 months post-injury. MI was defined by the self-reported presence of a mood and/or anxiety disorder diagnosed by a healthcare professional pre- or post-injury. The Mental Health Continuum Short Form measured aspects of PMH. Claim information was obtained via administrative records. Latent profile analysis identified the unique number of MI and PMH profiles. Chi-Square and ANOVA tests compared sociodemographic, return-to-work, health, and claim outcomes between classes. RESULTS: Four latent MI and three latent PMH classes were uncovered. Eighteen percent of participants exhibited high MI symptoms diagnosed pre- and post-injury and 14% exhibited languishing PMH. Classes with higher MI burden and languishing PMH were more likely to report financial concerns during their claim, pain interference, other health conditions, and opioid use. Claim duration and wage-replacement benefits were ~ 20 days longer and ~ $2000 greater, respectively, among the highest MI and lowest PMH classes. CONCLUSIONS: Workers' compensation claimants exhibit both flourishing and languishing mental health profiles. The demographic, health, and return-to-work characteristics of latent classes may help identify claimants who may benefit from additional psychological support when returning to work.
Work Participation of Hematological Cancer Survivors After Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation: A Scoping Review.
Bilodeau K, Vinette B, Gélinas-Gagné C … +5 more , Torabi P, Hartono B, Désilets M, Ahmad I, Porro B
J Occup Rehabil · 2026 Mar · PMID 39607656 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: Hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) is a common treatment for people diagnosed with hematological cancers. However, it can cause side effects that may affect work participation. This scoping review aims to...
PURPOSE: Hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) is a common treatment for people diagnosed with hematological cancers. However, it can cause side effects that may affect work participation. This scoping review aims to provide an overview of the factors that influence the work participation of hematological cancer survivors who have undergone HCT. METHODS: We conducted a scoping review following the Joanna Briggs Institute guidelines and developed our search strategy in collaboration with a scientific librarian and searched nine databases (CINAHL, MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane, PubMed, PsycINFO, Web of Science, Scopus, ProQuest Dissertations, & Theses Global) for primary studies in French or English until February 2024. Two reviewers extracted the data and analyzed it thematically. We synthesized and presented the findings using a narrative description approach. RESULTS: We identified 940 publications, of which 36 met the eligibility criteria. Our findings underscore the significance of considering individuals over 50, those undergoing allogeneic HCT, women, and those with lower incomes. We noted disparities in evaluating or describing work participation. CONCLUSION: It is crucial for researchers and healthcare professionals in hematological care to be aware of the intersecting factors that influence work participation. There are still significant gaps in how workplace dynamics, legislation, and healthcare systems affect the return to work process.
Associations between Psychosocial Working Conditions and Work-Specific Self-Efficacy Beliefs Among Employees Receiving Psychotherapeutic Consultation at Work.
Weber J, Hansmann M, Heming M … +10 more , Herold R, Erim Y, Hander N, Rothermund E, Mulfinger N, Kröger C, Feißt M, Brezinski J, Kohl F, Angerer P
J Occup Rehabil · 2025 Dec · PMID 39578319 · Full text
PURPOSE: By considering work-related aspects during early intervention and treatment of employees with (subclinical) symptoms of common mental disorders, psychotherapeutic consultation at work (PT-W) aims to increase wor...
PURPOSE: By considering work-related aspects during early intervention and treatment of employees with (subclinical) symptoms of common mental disorders, psychotherapeutic consultation at work (PT-W) aims to increase work-specific self-efficacy (SE) to finally reduce sickness absence and contribute to successful return to work. This study, thus, aims to investigate interrelations between working conditions and work-specific SE among employees before receiving PT-W. METHODS: The study uses baseline data of a randomized controlled trial testing the efficacy of PT-W in Germany (n = 535). Working conditions were assessed by six scales of the validated Copenhagen Psychosocial Questionnaire (COPSOQ). SE was assessed by the validated general short occupational self-efficacy (OSE) scale and return-to-work self-efficacy (RTW-SE) scale, two specific forms of self-efficacy. Multiple linear regression models were calculated using working conditions as independent and self-efficacy as dependent variables. Interactions between working conditions and age, gender and current extent of work were added to those models. RESULTS: Results suggest that quantitative job demands are negatively and development opportunities are positively related to OSE and RTW-SE. Age did not moderate those relationships. The association between development opportunities and OSE was stronger among employees indicating working less number of hours than specified in their contract compared to employees indicating working their full contract hours. Furthermore, interactions with gender were found with social support being only (positively) associated with OSE among male and decision authority being only (positively) associated with OSE among female employees. CONCLUSIONS: The associations between working conditions and work-specific SE support the usefulness of addressing potential reciprocal relationships between those two variables during PT-W to improve mental health of employees. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: Registered at the German Clinical Trial Register (DRKS) at 01.03.2021-DRKS00023049.
A Meta-synthesis of Qualitative Research on Effective Return to Work Counseling for Individuals with Work Participation Restrictions - A Systematic Review.
Baasner AL, Petrak S, Albersmann L … +3 more , Gröhl S, Lemke S, Bethge M
J Occup Rehabil · 2025 Dec · PMID 39516422 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: The aim of this systematic review was to summarize the qualitative evidence on factors of effective counseling aiming at work participation for people with chronic diseases and/or disabilities. METHODS: We condu...
PURPOSE: The aim of this systematic review was to summarize the qualitative evidence on factors of effective counseling aiming at work participation for people with chronic diseases and/or disabilities. METHODS: We conducted a systematic literature search in MEDLINE (PubMed), CINAHL, Web of Science, PsycINFO, and PubPsych in March 2023. Our inclusion criteria stipulated that counseling should be specifically designed for individuals experiencing constraints in work participation and published in German or English between 2013 and 2023. To assess the quality of the included studies, we used the checklist of the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme. We synthesized our findings according to the meta-ethnographic methodology by Noblit and Hare. RESULTS: Of the 2901 papers found in the systematic search, we included 16 qualitative studies in our meta-synthesis. Studies were conducted in Australia, the USA, Canada, Nordic countries, and Germany. Our "model of the effectiveness of counseling for work participation" consists of four levels. At the extended organizational level, potential factors include the provision of sufficient time and work resources for counselors or contact persons. At the team and stakeholder level, structural collaboration, for example, is crucial. In the counseling dyad, counselors can employ shared decision-making and at the individual level, personal character traits and the client's motivation are exemplary factors. CONCLUSION: This study provides a comprehensive overview of factors contributing to effective counseling in the context of work participation. The delineation across various levels underscores that effectiveness in counseling is a collective outcome, involving not only the advisor but also other stakeholders.
Reliability and Construct Validity of the Work Rehabilitation Questionnaire Domains in Patients with Persistent Low Back Pain.
Hansen A, Lauridsen HH, Escorpizo R … +4 more , Søgaard K, Søndergaard J, Schiøttz-Christensen B, Mortensen OS
J Occup Rehabil · 2025 Dec · PMID 39516421 · Full text
PURPOSE: The Work Rehabilitation Questionnaire (WORQ) assesses patient functioning, including psychological, physical, and cognitive limitations. This study evaluates the WORQ domains in individuals with persistent low b...
PURPOSE: The Work Rehabilitation Questionnaire (WORQ) assesses patient functioning, including psychological, physical, and cognitive limitations. This study evaluates the WORQ domains in individuals with persistent low back pain (LBP), focusing on reliability and construct validity. METHODS: Individuals aged 18-65 with LBP completed WORQ and the workability index single item. A subgroup undertook sit-to-stand and 6-min walking tests and re-evaluated WORQ after 14 days. Reliability was assessed through internal consistency (McDonald's omega and Cronbach's alpha), test-retest reliability, and smallest detectable change. Construct validity was analyzed via Spearman's rank correlation and known group validity, with physical functioning also examined against sit-to-stand and 6-min walk test results for sensitivity/specificity. Floor and ceiling effects were assessed through classical and scale width methods. RESULTS: Of 425 participants, 149 completed physical tests, and 102 re-assessed WORQ. McDonald's omega and Cronbach's alpha indicated high internal consistency (0.92-0.96) with strong test-retest reliability (intraclass-correlation coefficients: 0.74-0.82). The smallest detectable change ranged from 4.62 to 7.82. Predictions from 7 out of 8 hypotheses were confirmed. Notable differences in domain scores were observed based on disability level and sick leave status, with varied diagnostic performance in physical functioning items. Potential floor effects were noted using the scale width method. CONCLUSIONS: The WORQ demonstrated good reliability and satisfactory validity in assessing work-related functioning in individuals with persistent LBP. These findings support its use as a comprehensive tool for evaluating psychological, physical, and cognitive limitations. However, varied diagnostic performance in physical functioning items and potential floor effects suggest cautious interpretation in diverse clinical settings.
Person-, Job-, and Environment-Related Factors Associated with Long-Term Job Retention of People with Physical Disabilities.
Kudla A, Dinelli EJ, Capraro P … +6 more , S Crown D, Sheth M, Trierweiler R, Munsell E, Wong J, Heinemann AW
J Occup Rehabil · 2025 Dec · PMID 39488815 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: Employment provides people with physical disabilities (PWPD) financial independence, enhances their well-being, self-worth, and facilitates a sense of purpose. However, the unemployment rate for PWPD is signific...
PURPOSE: Employment provides people with physical disabilities (PWPD) financial independence, enhances their well-being, self-worth, and facilitates a sense of purpose. However, the unemployment rate for PWPD is significantly higher than for individuals without a disability. There is limited knowledge regarding what factors help people with disabilities retain employment beyond the standard 90-day job probationary period. Thus, we investigated person-, job-, and environment-related factors that contribute to long-term job retention for four years or more among PWPD. METHODS: We recruited a national sample of 1500 PWPD who had work experience after disability onset from panels assembled by a market research organization. We compared a subsample that maintained their longest held job for at least four years with those who had not using multivariate Poisson regression. Three models evaluated the association between job retention and (1) person-, (2) job-, and (3) environment-related factors. RESULTS: Likelihood of job retention was greater for respondents reporting fatigue or emotional problems (vs. pain), advancement opportunities, and receipt of job accommodations. Concerns about limited career advancement opportunities, perception of unimportance about disclosing a disability to coworkers, and difficult work commutes were associated with shorter job retention. CONCLUSION: Several person-, job-, and environment-related factors play an important role in promoting job retention of people with physical disabilities. Employers, job coaches, and rehabilitation professionals should consider these factors when developing strategies to support the retention of PWPD. Future studies should examine the relationship between these factors and their associations with the employment outcomes of PWPD across work settings and industries.
Disability, Pity, and the Workplace.
Breen JS, Shiffman VJ, Forwell SJ
J Occup Rehabil · 2025 Dec · PMID 39487909 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: The purpose is to examine perceptions of pity directed toward people with disabilities to gain a deeper understanding of the effect of these perceptions on the employment success of people with disabilities and...
PURPOSE: The purpose is to examine perceptions of pity directed toward people with disabilities to gain a deeper understanding of the effect of these perceptions on the employment success of people with disabilities and to provide direction to disability-related training and strategic planning in the workplace. METHODS: Two studies were developed to explore these relationships. The first measured the characteristics most frequently associated with people with disabilities in the workplace. Survey respondents rated the degree to which they believed the average person would assign these several characteristics to people with disabilities. The second measured the degree to which perceptions of pity, as directed toward people with disabilities, were correlated with the apparent complexity of those disabilities. Respondents determined the relative amount of money that passers-by would likely donate to panhandlers who used various mobility equipment (i.e., wheelchair, walker, cane). RESULTS: Results from these studies indicated that people with disabilities were more likely to be assigned a preponderance of negative characteristics, including those described as unfortunate, limited, and tragic. In addition, people with disabilities whose disabilities were perceived as more complex were seen as being more in need of financial assistance. CONCLUSION: By providing an empirically driven starting point for organizational planners, including human resource professionals, managers, and recruiters, these two studies provide a basis upon which to develop strategies that account for these affect-based responses to disability.
User-Centred Design to Inform Requirements for a Remotely Administered Hybrid Functional Test (RAHFT) Protocol.
Fischer SL, Hawley SJ, Bains A … +1 more , Carter T
J Occup Rehabil · 2025 Dec · PMID 39487908 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: Functional testing is important to inform return-to-work (RTW), but new paradigms are needed to increase access and availability of testing. Our purpose was to deploy a user centred design approach to collect, d...
PURPOSE: Functional testing is important to inform return-to-work (RTW), but new paradigms are needed to increase access and availability of testing. Our purpose was to deploy a user centred design approach to collect, describe, and interpret end-user feedback (clinicians and patients) to inform functional requirements for a remotely administered hybrid functional test (RAHFT) protocol. METHODS: Twenty participants (10 clinicians and 10 patients) were interviewed about existing in-person functional testing and about perceptions of prospective remotely administered functional testing protocols. Interview data were synthesized, where findings informed a focus group with functional testing clinician experts to identify functional design requirements for a RAHFT protocol. RESULTS: Patients agreed that access to equipment and technology, safety, and personal connections were important requirements for a functional testing protocol. Expert clinicians emphasized that a RAHFT should provide valid information to inform treatment planning and RTW outcome decisions, inclusive of opportunities to capture subjective and performance-based information. CONCLUSIONS: RAHFT protocols can play an important role towards early and safe RTW. RAHFT protocols will increase availability and improve access for workers that cannot easily attend a clinic for in-person testing. Findings from this study provide functional requirements that should be considered when designing RAHFT protocols.
Correction: Organisational Policies and Practices for the Inclusion of Vulnerable Workers: A Scoping Review of the Employer's Perspective.
Kersten A, van Woerkom M, Geuskens GA … +1 more , Blonk RWB
J Occup Rehabil · 2024 Dec · PMID 39487267 · Full text
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Evaluating the Efficacy of Telehealth-Based Treatments for Depression in Adults: A Rapid Review and Meta-Analysis.
Nowrouzi-Kia B, Bani-Fatemi A, Jackson TD … +11 more , Li AKC, Chattu VK, Lytvyak E, Deibert D, Dennett L, Ferguson-Pell M, Hagtvedt R, Els C, Durand-Moreau Q, Gross DP, Straube S
J Occup Rehabil · 2025 Dec · PMID 39485666 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: Major depressive disorder (MDD) is one of the leading causes of work-related disability, and accessing telehealth therapies can be a promising modality for workers with MDD. Barriers to accessing in-person menta...
PURPOSE: Major depressive disorder (MDD) is one of the leading causes of work-related disability, and accessing telehealth therapies can be a promising modality for workers with MDD. Barriers to accessing in-person mental healthcare, such as limited availability and accessibility in rural and remote communities, financial constraints, and stigma, have highlighted the need for alternative approaches like telehealth. This study investigated the efficacy of telehealth interventions including CBT for adults over 18 diagnosed with MDD. METHODS: This rapid review and meta-analysis followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines to ensure a transparent methodology. Out of the 2549 studies screened, 19 were incorporated into the rapid review, and of those, 10 were included in the subsequent meta-analyses. Articles were screened independently by two reviewers, with the disagreements reconciled through discussion. A reviewer extracted data from eligible articles. Descriptive statistics and narrative syntheses were used to describe outcomes. Two meta-analyses were conducted to investigate the efficacy of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) delivered by telehealth (tCBT). The first compared tCBT to in-person CBT (pCBT). The second meta-analysis compared tCBT to a control group that did not receive CBT or another telehealth-based treatment. Non-CBT interventions investigated within the non-CBT group included somatic rhythm therapy, problem-solving therapy, psychiatry, behavioral activation, and interpersonal psychotherapy. RESULTS: Overall, individuals with MDD who received tCBT showed significant improvement in depression symptoms. However, the efficacy of tCBT compared to non-telehealth control groups varied across studies. The first meta-analysis indicated the magnitudes of effect were similar for both interventions in reducing depression symptoms 0.023 (95% CI - 0.120 to 0.166); p = 1.00. In the second meta-analysis, the ratio of means comparing tCBT (0.51 ± 0.14 SD) to the control group (0.68 ± 0.12 SD) exhibited a statistically significant 25% reduction with regard to depression scores (one-sided p = 0.002), favouring tCBT to non-telehealth, non-CBT study groups. CONCLUSIONS: Telehealth-based CBT demonstrated positive effects on depression symptoms; it was generally superior when compared to control groups not receiving CBT and was on par with pCBT. The growing mental health burden in the community underscores the need for accessible telehealth services like tCBT. Effective policy formulation and implementation in national health agendas are essential to meet the increasing demand for mental health support.
Negative Beliefs About Working with Health Problems and Support at Work as Predictors for Return to Work for People Struggling with Common Mental Disorders.
Bjørndal MT, Frederiksen KP, Gjengedal RGH … +4 more , Bull-Hansen B, Osnes K, Hannisdal M, Hjemdal O
J Occup Rehabil · 2025 Dec · PMID 39453545 · Full text
PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to investigate predictors for return to work for people struggling with common mental disorders on sick leave or at risk of sick leave. The first aim of this study was to evaluate t...
PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to investigate predictors for return to work for people struggling with common mental disorders on sick leave or at risk of sick leave. The first aim of this study was to evaluate the psychometric properties of a set of statements exploring different conditions at the workplace and assumptions about working with health problems, by investigating the factor structure, reliability and construct validity of these statements. The second aim of this study was to investigate the predictive value of the identified factors. METHODS: A total of 797 patients from an outpatient mental health clinic were included in a naturalistic observational study. The study design was longitudinal. The participants filled out self-report questionnaires pre- and post-treatment. RESULTS: A principal component factor analysis with a varimax rotation identified two factors, Negative beliefs about working with health problems and Support at work, displaying high internal consistency, 0.83 and 0.84, respectively. Separately, both factors were significant predictors of full return to work after treatment. The final multivariable analysis including both factors left Negative beliefs about working with health problems as a significant predictor explaining unique variance. CONCLUSIONS: Negative beliefs about working with health problems and Support at work are important predictors for work status after treatment and should therefore be addressed during treatment for common mental disorders to assist people return to work.
Are the Quality of Organizational Changes Associated with Expected Retirement-Age Among Senior Employees?
Albertsen K, Meng A, Sundstrup E … +3 more , Nielsen P, Pedersen F, Andersen LL
J Occup Rehabil · 2025 Dec · PMID 39448417 · Full text
OBJECTIVE: Major organizational changes may be associated with both positive and negative uncertainty in working life. This study described the prevalence of organizational changes (reorganizations or round of layoffs) w...
OBJECTIVE: Major organizational changes may be associated with both positive and negative uncertainty in working life. This study described the prevalence of organizational changes (reorganizations or round of layoffs) within different job functions in Denmark and investigated whether quality of the implementation process (measured as "information", "involvement" and "consent") was associated with employees' expectations regarding retirement age. METHODS: A representative sample of older Danish employees ≥ 50 years (n = 12,269) replied to a questionnaire survey in 2020. In cross-sectional analyses, we compared employee's expected retirement age being either not exposed to organizational changes or exposed to implementation processes of high, moderate or low-quality, respectively. Analyses were further stratified for job function: office work, work with people and work in the field of production. RESULTS: More than half (56%) of the employees had experienced organizational changes within the past 2 years, and 23% of those effected reported that the changes had led to considerations of earlier retirement. Organizational changes were most prevalent within office work, and least prevalent within the job function working with people. The analyses showed significantly lower expected retirement age when the implementation process had been of moderate (mean reduction of 0.45 years) or low quality (mean reduction of 0.71 years) compared to high quality implemented changes. CONCLUSIONS: Experiences of organizational change processes of moderate or poor quality were associated with expectations of earlier retirement, while well implemented changes were not. This study underscores the importance of good implementation when changes at the organizational level are needed.
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