Participatory Approach to Create a Supportive Work Environment for Employees With Chronic Conditions: A Pilot Implementation Study. Issue 8 (9th August 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Bosma, Astrid R.; Boot, Cécile R.L.; Schaap, Rosanne; Schaafsma, Frederieke G.; Anema, Johannes R.
• Is Part Of: Journal of occupational and environmental medicine. Volume 64:Issue 8(2022)
• Page Start: 665
• Page End: 674
• Publication Date: 2022-08-09
• Subjects: work -- chronic disease -- organizations -- implementation science -- occupational medicine; Medicine, Industrial -- Periodicals; Environmental health -- Periodicals; Occupational Medicine -- Periodicals; Environmental Medicine -- Periodicals; Environmental health; Medicine, Industrial; Periodicals; Electronic journals; 616.9803
• DOI: 10.1097/JOM.0000000000002557
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1076-2752

Abstract

Abstract : Preventive support for employees with chronic conditions is difficult, as only motivated organizations are willing to invest in prevention. Occupational physicians can have a role in increasing preventive policies within organizations, by raising awareness of the impact of working with chronic conditions and the need for a supportive work environment. Abstract : Objective: To evaluate a pilot implementation of an organizational-level intervention. The participatory approach (PA) was used to create a supportive work environment for employees with chronic conditions, with a key role for occupational physicians (OPs). Methods: Twenty-eight semi-structured interviews were conducted with OPs and stakeholders within their organizations. Furthermore, observational data and research notes were gathered. Data analysis occurred through content analysis. Results: Recruitment of organizations was challenging, with a reach of 25%. Dose delivered, dose received, and fidelity differed across the three organizations. Organizations were positive about the PA as a method to improve support for employees with chronic conditions. Conclusions: The PA could be of added value for creating a supportive work environment. However, research is needed on activating organizations to improve support for employees with chronic conditions.