Exploring the Applicability and Relevance of the Seven Principles for Successful Return to Work in Practice: A Qualitative Analysis of the Perspectives of Disability Managers, Case Managers, and Return-to-work Consultants.

introductionThe Seven Principles for Successful Return to Work can be used to guide the return-to-work process. QueryThe purpose of this study was to understand the relevance of these principles and their key concepts to return-to-work practices, and how they are being applied in practice to guide return-to-work from the perspectives of disability managers, case managers and return-to-work consultants.

methodsWe recruited Canadian disability managers, case managers and return-to-work consultants from workplaces, workers' compensation boards and third-party disability management companies. Twelve participants participated in virtual semi-structured interviews about the Seven Principles for Successful Return to Work and their associated concepts (i.e., modified work). We used interpretive description to analyze the transcripts, and two coders performed the thematic analysis.

resultsParticipants explained how each principle was applied in practice, and the relevance of the principles in their work, identifying that 5 of 7 principles were relevant to their specific field of practice. We identified 5 themes that identified how the concepts within the principles supported return-to-work processes: Communication is critical; The disability manager should be responsible for coordinating return-to-work with the collaboration of stakeholders; Objective and accurate medical information is required in a timely manner; Modified work must be meaningful, productive, and safe; Workplace culture impacts return-to-work.

conclusionAlthough most principles were relevant, we identified two less relevant principles in some disability management contexts due to the constraints of their work (return-to-work that does not disadvantage other workers; communication between the workplace and the healthcare provider). The principles represent key concepts which can support return-to-work planning for disability management professionals.