A Worksite Self-management Program for Workers with Chronic Health Conditions Improves Worker Engagement and...

Area of Science:

• Occupational health
• Health psychology
• Workplace interventions

Background:

• Chronic health conditions increasingly impact workforce participation in the US.
• Limited evidence exists for worksite interventions to enhance coping and problem-solving skills for these workers.
• Effective strategies are needed to support employees with chronic conditions and prevent disability.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate a worksite-based health self-management program designed to improve workplace function.
• To assess the program's impact on work engagement, limitations, job satisfaction, fatigue, self-efficacy, absenteeism, and turnover intention.
• To determine the feasibility and benefits of such interventions for retaining workers with chronic health conditions.

Main Methods:

• A randomized controlled trial (N=119) of the "Manage at Work" program was conducted.
• Participants (82% female, ages 20-69) were from healthcare and light manufacturing sectors.
• A 5-session psychoeducational program focused on self-management, self-efficacy, ergonomics, and communication, compared against a wait-list control group.

Main Results:

• The program significantly improved work engagement and reduced turnover intention at 6-month follow-up.
• No significant reduction in perceived work limitations was observed.
• Trends towards improved work self-efficacy, job satisfaction, and reduced work fatigue did not reach statistical significance.

Conclusions:

• Worksite self-management programs are a feasible strategy for supporting employees with chronic health conditions.
• These programs can enhance work engagement and reduce turnover, aiding in the retention of skilled workers.
• Further research may explore optimizing program components to address a broader range of workplace function outcomes.