Journal Article Details
Citation:
Young, A., Roessler, R., Wasiak, R., McPherson, K., van Poppel, M., & Amena, J.R. (2005). A developmental conceptualization of return to work.
Journal of Occupational Rehabilitation, 15
(4),
557-568.
Title:
A developmental conceptualization of return to work
Authors:
Young, A., Roessler, R., Wasiak, R., McPherson, K., van Poppel, M., & Amena, J.R.
Year:
2005
Journal/Publication:
Journal of Occupational Rehabilitation
Publisher:
Springer Science
DOI:
Full text:
Peer-reviewed?
Yes
NIDILRR-funded?
No
Research design:
Literature review
Structured abstract:
Background:
Understanding return to work (RTW) following disability is important due to the low employment rate of individuals with disabilities in the United States (indicated at 35%). The long term work outcomes of these individuals are just as little understood as the sometimes lengthy RTW process. The ability to predict and facilitate favorable RTW outcomes is an important focus of research for this population group.
Purpose:
The purpose of this paper is to discuss RTW as a dynamic process with multiple phases and propose a new way of defining and assessing it.
Findings:
Terminology that should be a shared understanding in the field was discussed. Work Disability, RTW, RTW Stakeholder, RTW Goal, RTW outcome, RTW process were all explained. Phases of RTW were also discussed-Off Work, Re-entry, Maintenance, and Advancement. A uniform standard to measure RTW was discussed as was the application of the conceptualization proposed in this article.
Conclusions:
This knowledge about RTW breaks down the complexity of the process and holds promise for furthering the understanding of RTW.
Outcomes:
Return to work