Citation

Franche RL, Severin CN, Hogg-Johnson S, Cote PE, Vidmar M, Lee H. J. Occup. Environ. Med. 2007; 49(9): 960-974.

Affiliation

Institute for Work & Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. rfranche@iwh.on.ca

Copyright

(Copyright © 2007, Lippincott Williams and Wilkins)

DOI

10.1097/JOM.0b013e31814b2e9f

PMID

17848852

Abstract

OBJECTIVES: To examine, using administrative and self-reported data, the relationship between early return-to-work (RTW) strategies and work absence duration. METHODS: Using a cohort of 632 claimants with work-related musculoskeletal injuries, Cox proportional hazard analyses were performed with RTW strategies measured 1 month after injury as predictors. Outcomes were 6-month self-reported work absence duration and time receiving wage replacement benefits from an administrative database. RESULTS: Work accommodation offer and acceptance and advice from health care provider (HCP) to the workplace on re-injury prevention were significant predictors of shorter work absence duration indexed by both self-report and administrative data. Receiving an ergonomic visit was a significant predictor of shorter duration receiving benefits only. CONCLUSIONS: Analyses using administrative and self-reported indices of work absence generally converged. Work accommodation and targeted HCP communication with the workplace are critical for effective early RTW interventions.

Language: en