Helping clinicians in work disability prevention: the work disability diagnosis interview

Area of Science:

• Occupational Medicine
• Rehabilitation Science

Background:

• Work disability from musculoskeletal disorders is multifactorial, influenced by worker characteristics and environmental factors.
• These environmental factors include workplace conditions, healthcare, and compensation systems.
• Stakeholder interactions also play a role in the disability process.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce the Work Disability Diagnosis Interview (WoDDI), a tool designed to aid clinicians.
• To assist in identifying prognostic factors for disability in patients with subacute or chronic musculoskeletal pain.
• To facilitate the development of targeted rehabilitation plans for work absence.

Main Methods:

• The WoDDI was developed using a systematic approach, including a structured literature review and expert input.
• The interview underwent revisions based on four years of clinical usage.
• It consists of open-ended questions covering physical, psychosocial, occupational, and administrative domains.

Main Results:

• The WoDDI is utilized during the initial patient encounter.
• It aids clinicians in focusing on disability resolution for patients with musculoskeletal disorders.
• Initial use revealed a high prevalence of sociodemographic, work-related, and psychosocial factors contributing to prolonged absence.

Conclusions:

• The WoDDI is a valuable tool for clinicians assessing work disability in musculoskeletal pain patients.
• It helps in identifying key factors that may prolong work absence.
• The interview supports the creation of effective rehabilitation strategies to address work disability.