"Apping Up": Prospects for Information Technology Innovation in Return to Work Communication

Area of Science:

• Occupational Health
• Health Informatics
• Communication Studies

Background:

• Current return to work (RTW) communication relies on paper forms between healthcare providers (HCPs) and employers.
• Information technology (IT) platforms offer potential for enhanced information exchange, guideline sharing, and decision-making in RTW processes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate stakeholder perspectives on the adoption of IT for RTW communication in Ontario, Canada.
• To understand the factors influencing the potential transition from paper-based to IT-mediated RTW communication.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study employing interviews with 12 HCPs, 7 employers, and 5 workers experienced in RTW.
• Exploration of general RTW communication experiences followed by feedback on a prototype IT platform.
• Progressive, thematic coding used for data analysis.

Main Results:

• Stakeholders showed varying degrees of support for IT in RTW communication, with no absolute objections.
• Perceived usefulness, fit with existing practices, stakeholder buy-in, and demonstrated performance were key factors influencing adoption.
• Five inter-related themes emerged regarding the transition to IT-mediated communication.

Conclusions:

• While IT for RTW communication is supported in principle, significant caveats regarding perceived value and practical fit exist.
• System support and stakeholder cooperation are crucial for adoption.
• Demonstrating value through implementation trials is necessary before widespread adoption.