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Stakeholder Perspectives on Cancer Survivors' Return to Work and Well-Being: Qualitative Interview Study
Sara L Fällman1,2, Katarina Wijk3,4,5, Anna Efverman1
1Department of Caring Science, Faculty of Health and Occupational Studies, University of Gävle, Kungsbäcksvägen 47, Gävle, Gävleborg, 801 76, Sweden, 46 707305930.
JMIR Cancer
|May 11, 2026
Summary
Returning to work after cancer treatment is challenging. Improved collaboration, clear roles, and flexible support are crucial for successful cancer survivor reintegration and well-being.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Occupational Health
- Rehabilitation Medicine
Background:
- Cancer affects a significant portion of the working population, necessitating effective return-to-work (RTW) strategies.
- Improving cancer survival rates leads to more individuals needing support for work reintegration post-treatment.
- Existing rehabilitation frameworks often fall short in addressing the barriers faced by cancer survivors in sustainable employment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore stakeholder perspectives on facilitators and barriers to return-to-work (RTW) for cancer survivors.
- To identify factors that promote work-related well-being during the RTW process for cancer patients.
- To inform the development of a work-oriented rehabilitation intervention.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative content analysis of semistructured interviews with 25 stakeholders.
- Stakeholders included healthcare professionals, social insurance officers, employers, and employment service officers.
- Interviews were conducted during the development phase of a work-oriented rehabilitation intervention.
Main Results:
- Five themes emerged: collaboration, individual adaptations, structural support, individual expectations, and the emotional significance of work.
- Facilitators included flexible work, individualized support, strong work desire, and the value of work.
- Barriers involved poor collaboration, unclear responsibilities, and structural issues like sick leave bureaucracy and financial obstacles.
Conclusions:
- Return-to-work for cancer survivors is complex, requiring coordinated efforts across healthcare, insurance, and employment sectors.
- Enhanced collaboration, defined stakeholder roles, and flexible, individualized support are vital for successful RTW.
- A dedicated coordinator role and early RTW support are proposed to prevent long-term labor market exclusion.
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