Factors inﬂuencing sustainable employment of persons with acquired brain injury (ABI) or spinal cord injury (SCI): A qualitative study evaluating the perspective of health and work professionals

Frontiers in Rehabilitation Sciences, 2023 · DOI: 10.3389/fresc.2022.906567 · Published: January 20, 2023

Simple Explanation

This study explores the factors that help or hinder people with acquired brain injuries (ABI) or spinal cord injuries (SCI) from maintaining long-term employment. It gathers insights from health and work professionals in Switzerland involved in helping these individuals return to work. The research involved interviews with 23 professionals to understand their perspectives on what makes employment sustainable for individuals with ABI or SCI, focusing on both the challenges and support systems available. The study highlights the importance of early and well-coordinated support, the impact of changes in health or the workplace, and the crucial role of knowledgeable and empathetic professionals in ensuring long-term job retention for these individuals.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

23 professionals in Switzerland involved in work reintegration of persons with ABI or SCI

Evidence Level

Level IV, Qualitative Study

Key Findings

1
Early, multidisciplinary, and person-centered work integration is crucial, with the early involvement of employers being ideal for sustainable employment.
2
Key risks for individuals with ABI include changes in supervisors, workplace restructuring, and new technologies, while deteriorating health and secondary health problems pose significant risks for those with SCI.
3
Knowledge of the consequences of ABI or SCI, the legal framework, social security processes, and the attitudes of professionals are vital for supporting injured workers.

Research Summary

The study identifies key factors influencing sustainable employment for individuals with ABI or SCI from the perspective of health and work professionals. It highlights the importance of early intervention, coordinated support, and the role of knowledgeable professionals. Participants emphasized the significance of addressing work-related issues early in the rehabilitation process and maintaining open communication among all stakeholders, including employers, insurance providers, and healthcare professionals. The research reveals a need for ongoing support and counseling services to address work-threatening problems in the long term, along with diagnosis-specific training programs for professionals in employment-related services and disability management.

Practical Implications

Early Intervention Programs

Implement early and coordinated vocational rehabilitation programs as part of initial rehabilitation to improve long-term employment outcomes.

Workplace Adaptation Strategies

Develop workplace adaptation strategies that address the specific needs of individuals with ABI or SCI, including managing changes in supervisors, technology, and health conditions.

Professional Training and Support

Provide diagnosis-specific training programs for professionals in employment-related services to enhance their knowledge, empathy, and ability to support sustainable employment.

Study Limitations

1
Risk of bias due to the convenient recruitment strategy and purposive sampling.
2
Integration specialists showed limited insight beyond initial integration.
3
Lack of work professionals who look after clients with work problems, mainly in the long-term phase.

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