The Galaxen model--a concept for rehabilitation and prevention in the construction industry

The Galaxen model was developed during the late 1980s to provide rehabilitation and prevention activities in the construction industry. It handles around 1200 workers with long-term sick leave or partial disabilities annually, some 10% of whom annually leave Galaxen for an ordinary job without a wage subsidy. The model includes a decision by a rehabilitation board of representatives from the employers, the trade union, and the regional employment office, a rehabilitation plan, allotment of a case manager, wage subsidies from the State to the company, a search for a suitable job in relation to the partial disability. It also includes a preventive program with emphasis on practical ergonomics. The Galaxen model has proved to be a suitable means of rehabilitating construction workers and returning them to the workforce. The model was developed within the Swedish social security system but could well be adjusted to other contexts.