Return-to-Work Guidelines and Programs for Post-Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation Survivors: An Initial Survey

Area of Science:

• Hematology
• Oncology
• Transplantation Medicine

Background:

• Hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) necessitates significant work absence, potentially leading to unemployment or early retirement for survivors.
• While risk factors for return-to-work (RTW) failure post-HCT are known, the role of transplant centers in facilitating this transition remains under-explored.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the existence and consistency of RTW guidelines at HCT centers.
• To identify the presence and characteristics of RTW programs offered to HCT patients.
• To understand transplant centers' perspectives on RTW challenges and potential solutions.

Main Methods:

• An online survey was distributed to representatives of 150 adult HCT centers performing at least 50 HCTs annually.
• The survey included 32 questions covering RTW guidelines, RTW programs, and center demographics.
• Completed surveys were received from 45 centers, yielding a 30% response rate.

Main Results:

• Only 44% of surveyed centers reported having formal RTW guidelines.
• While all centers recommended RTW within 6 months for autologous HCT, recommendations for allogeneic HCT varied widely (4 months to >1 year).
• Despite 87% acknowledging RTW as a problem, only 36% offered specific RTW programs, though most believed such programs would be beneficial.

Conclusions:

• A significant gap exists in standardized RTW guidelines and dedicated RTW programs across HCT centers.
• Most centers recognize RTW as a significant challenge for HCT survivors.
• There is a clear need for developing standardized guidelines and supportive RTW programs to aid HCT survivors' reintegration into the workforce.