Journal Article Details

Citation:
Varekamp, I., Verbeek, J. H.A.M., & van Dijk, F. J. H. (2006). How can we help employees with chronic diseases to stay at work? A review of interventions aimed at job retention and based on an empowerment perspective. International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, 80 (2), 87-97.
Title:
How can we help employees with chronic diseases to stay at work? A review of interventions aimed at job retention and based on an empowerment perspective
Authors:
Varekamp, I., Verbeek, J. H.A.M., & van Dijk, F. J. H.
Year:
2006
Journal/Publication: 
International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health
Publisher:
Springer
DOI:
Full text:
Peer-reviewed?
Yes
NIDILRR-funded? 
No
Research design:
Systematic review / meta-analysis

Structured abstract:

Background:
A growing number of individuals aged between 16-65 are hampered by a chronic disorder or disability in performing job activities (Beckers et al.2004). Theses individuals are less often employed than others and often leave the workforce prematurely.
Purpose:
The objective of the study is to describe the characteristics, feasibility and effectiveness of job retention interventions provided by vocational rehabilitation agencies.
Setting:
This study is a systematic review. The included studies were undertaken in various locations and settings.
Study sample:
Nine studies were reviewed that were experimental, included an intervention that aimed at job retention by means of solving work-related problems, used an empowerment perspective and concerned employees with chronic illness.
Control or comparison condition:
There were no comparison or control conditions.
Data collection & analysis:
Data on the feasibility of the intervention programs were collected. The following characteristics of the studies were assessed: pretest and/or post test measurement, use of control group, number of participants, follow-up period, outcome measures and effectiveness.
Findings:
There is some evidence that vocational rehabilitation interventions that pay attention to training in requesting work accommodations and feelings of self-confidence or self-efficacy in dealing with work related problems are effective.
Conclusions:
Many studies claim effectiveness, evidence for this was often weak due to short follow up and the lack of control groups. More rigorous evaluation is needed.
Disabilities served:
Medical impairment
Populations served:
Gender: Female and Male
Interventions:
Accommodations
Career counseling
Co-worker supports
Rehabilitation counseling
Training and technical assistance
Vocational assessment
Outcomes:
Increase in tenure
Other