Disability management and the cardiac rehabilitation patient: Job simulation and transitional work strategies

Medical advances and treatment interventions among patients with coronary heart diseases have not resulted in more timely return to work outcomes among cardiac rehabilitation programs. This article reviews vocational rehabilitation outcomes among persons with coronary heart disease, and the importance of employer-based disability management concepts. Job simulation, transitional work strategies, and ergonomic job site modifications, when integrated within the cardiac rehabilitation protocol, may yield promising results. The article discusses an experimental research project at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center that addresses worker-work environment interaction, encourages direct employer involvement, and promotes employer accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act.