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Occupational Physicians’ Reasoning about Recommending Early Return to Work with Work Modifications

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  • Ritva Horppu
  • Kari-Pekka Martimo
  • Eira Viikari-Juntura
  • Tea Lallukka
  • Ellen MacEachen

Abstract

Previous research indicates that work modifications can effectively enhance return to work (RTW) at an early stage of work disability. We aimed to examine how occupational physicians (OPs) reason about recommending early return to work (RTW) with work modifications. Pre-defined propositions regarding the use of work modifications in promoting early RTW were discussed in four focus groups with altogether 11 Finnish OPs. Discussions were audio recorded, and the transcribed data were analyzed using qualitative content analysis. Five different rationales for supporting early RTW were identified: to manage medical conditions, to enhance employee well-being, to help workplace stakeholders, to reduce costs to society, and to enhance OP’s own professional fulfillment. However, OPs identified situations and conditions in which early RTW may not be suitable. In addition, there were differences between the OPs in the interpretation of the rationales, suggesting variation in clinical practice. In conclusion, encouraging early RTW with work modifications was perceived by OPs as a meaningful task and, to a large extent, beneficial for employees and several stakeholders. However, this practice was not accepted without consideration to the RTW situation and context. If early RTW and work modifications are to be promoted, OPs should be offered education that addresses their views regarding this practice.

Suggested Citation

  • Ritva Horppu & Kari-Pekka Martimo & Eira Viikari-Juntura & Tea Lallukka & Ellen MacEachen, 2016. "Occupational Physicians’ Reasoning about Recommending Early Return to Work with Work Modifications," PLOS ONE, Public Library of Science, vol. 11(7), pages 1-13, July.
    • Handle: RePEc:plo:pone00:0158588
    DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0158588
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Soklaridis, Sophie & Ammendolia, Carlo & Cassidy, David, 2010. "Looking upstream to understand low back pain and return to work: Psychosocial factors as the product of system issues," Social Science & Medicine, Elsevier, vol. 71(9), pages 1557-1566, November.
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    Cited by:

    1. Hisashi Eguchi & Akizumi Tsutsumi & Akiomi Inoue & Yuko Kachi, 2019. "Organizational justice and illness reporting among Japanese employees with chronic diseases," PLOS ONE, Public Library of Science, vol. 14(10), pages 1-14, October.

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