Return to work after work-related traumatic brain injury

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Occupational Health
• Rehabilitation Medicine

Background:

• Work-related traumatic brain injury (wrTBI) accounts for a significant portion of all TBIs.
• Despite its prevalence, wrTBI is understudied, leading to high costs for employers, insurers, and individuals.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare demographic, clinical, and occupational factors between individuals who returned to work (RTW) and those who did not after mild-to-moderate TBI.
• To identify perceived facilitators and barriers impacting RTW.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective cohort study utilizing data from an outpatient TBI assessment clinic.
• Surveys were mailed to eligible participants, followed by telephone interviews or mailed survey returns for consenting individuals.

Main Results:

• Half of the 50 participants successfully returned to work (RTW).
• The RTW group was younger and had more education than the non-RTW group.
• Key facilitators included support from family, friends, and treatment providers, and employer accommodations. Common barriers were cognitive difficulties (difficulty thinking/concentrating) and fatigue.

Conclusions:

• Social and employer support are crucial facilitators for RTW after TBI.
• Cognitive impairments and fatigue present significant barriers to returning to work.
• Further research into these facilitators and barriers is recommended for TBI rehabilitation strategies.