Determinants for return to work among sickness certified patients in general practice

Area of Science:

• Occupational Health
• Public Health
• General Practice

Background:

• Long-term sickness absence is a significant risk factor for permanent labor market exit.
• Early identification of individuals at risk is crucial for facilitating return to work.
• Primary healthcare settings are key for early intervention.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze determinants of return to work after sickness certification.
• To assess the relative impact of various factors on return to work.
• To identify predictors accessible in a general practitioner's office.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of 943 individuals aged 18-63, sickness certified in Swedish primary care, were followed for three years.
• Baseline data included demographics, diagnosis, employment status, and prior sick leave.
• Outcomes measured included return to work, compensated sick leave days, and disability pension.

Main Results:

• Half of the subjects returned to work within 14 days; only 15 remained on sick leave after three years.
• Previous sick leave extent, age, part-time sick leave, and specific diagnoses (psychiatric, musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, etc.) negatively impacted return to work.
• Employment status at baseline positively influenced return to work.

Conclusions:

• Return to work is influenced by multiple factors readily available in primary care.
• Previous sick leave history emerged as the most significant predictor.
• These findings can inform strategies for early intervention and support for return to work.