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A center-based approach to a transplant employment program
J M Carter1, R P Winsett, D Rager
1University of Tennessee, Memphis, USA.
Progress in Transplantation (Aliso Viejo, Calif.)
|February 24, 2001
Summary
Returning to work after transplantation requires proactive support. Integrating an employment specialist improved patient quality of life and shifted care from a sick role to rehabilitation.
Area of Science:
- Transplant medicine
- Vocational rehabilitation
- Healthcare quality improvement
Background:
- The transplant community actively discusses return to work post-transplantation.
- Healthcare providers often support a 'sick role' rather than proactive return to work.
- Transplant recipients may need specialized assistance to re-enter the workforce after extended absences.
Observation:
- Patients returning to work after transplantation may have prolonged absences from the workforce.
- Existing healthcare teams may lack the training or resources to adequately assist with employment reintegration.
Findings:
- Integrating an employment specialist into the transplant team is vital.
- This role facilitates a proactive employment atmosphere and improves patient quality of life.
Implications:
- The addition of an employment advocate shifts care from a reactive 'sick role' to proactive rehabilitation.
- Empowering transplant recipients to resume normal lives and return to work is a key outcome.