Case management after long-term absence from work in China: a case report

Area of Science:

• Occupational Health
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Case Management

Background:

• Return-to-work (RTW) following occupational injuries presents significant challenges.
• Case managers are crucial for successful RTW, yet interventions in China are nascent.
• This case report examines a specific RTW process within the Chinese context.

Observation:

• A 9-year work absence due to severe burn injuries preceded the intervention.
• The individual underwent 3 months of social and occupational rehabilitation, including workplace visits and trials.
• Ongoing liaison between the case manager, worker, and employer was maintained post-placement.

Findings:

• The case management intervention led to positive occupational and social adjustment.
• The individual progressed from the contemplation to action stage of employment readiness.
• Despite no significant changes in functional capacity or fear avoidance, the individual secured a maintenance technician role.
• Both the worker and employer reported satisfaction with the case management outcome.

Implications:

• Case management interventions appear effective within the Chinese occupational injury system.
• Developing professional case manager training, supportive policies, and early integrated interventions is recommended.
• Disability Adjustment Group Therapy and RTW Support Groups may enhance workers' return-to-work prospects.