Return to work after stroke: Important aspects shared and contrasted by five stakeholder groups.

Area of Science:

• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Occupational Health
• Neuroscience

Background:

• Challenges in return to work (RTW) after stroke are often linked to poor stakeholder cooperation.
• Identifying key factors that facilitate successful RTW post-stroke is crucial for improving patient outcomes.
• Understanding stakeholder perspectives is essential for optimizing the RTW process.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore and describe critical aspects of the RTW process for individuals post-stroke from Swedish stakeholders' viewpoints.
• To contrast stakeholder perspectives to identify factors influencing optimal RTW.
• To analyze the diverse agendas influencing the RTW process.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative content analysis was employed.
• Data were gathered through seven focus group interviews with relevant stakeholders.
• The study focused on understanding the nuances of the RTW process.

Main Results:

• Three primary themes emerged: the protracted nature of the RTW process, the necessity for enhanced knowledge, and the evaluation of work capacity.
• Stakeholders agreed on the importance of these themes but held divergent views, reflecting their distinct professional roles and objectives.
• Conflicting perspectives among stakeholders can impede the RTW process.

Conclusions:

• A dedicated stroke coordinator could effectively mediate divergent stakeholder perspectives.
• The coordinator should possess stroke-specific knowledge and a person-centered approach to guide decision-making within regulatory frameworks.
• A coordinator can enhance collaboration, provide support, and streamline services for clients and employers throughout the RTW journey.