Perception and satisfaction of injured workers toward rehabilitation services: A cross-sectional study

BackgroundWork-related injuries pose significant physical, psychological, and economic burdens on workers, their families, and society. Rehabilitation and return-to-work (RTW) programs are essential for recovery and reintegration into the workforce. However, little is known about injured workers' perceptions of and satisfaction with rehabilitation services in Jordan.ObjectiveThis study aims to explore and compare the perceptions and satisfaction of injured employees with rehabilitation services offered by the Social Security Corporation (SSC) and evaluate their outcomes of returning to work (RTW).MethodsThis cross-sectional survey evaluated perceptions and outcomes of return-to-work and satisfaction of a random sample of injured employees in Jordan in 2022. Phone interviews were conducted by trained interviewers using a five-part questionnaire on injury and rehabilitation experiences. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and inferential tests, including independent t-tests, ANOVA, Mann-Whitney U tests, Kruskal-Wallis tests, and Spearman's rank correlation coefficient.ResultsA total of 400 injured workers were surveyed. The mean age of the respondents was 36.1 ± 10.3 years, with the majority being males (92.5%) and married (70.3%). Less than half (46.8%) received rehabilitative services. The type and cause of injury were strongly correlated with receiving rehabilitation (p < 0.001). The mean perception rating was 3.89 ± 0.49 (out of 5), and the mean satisfaction rating among those who underwent rehabilitation was 4.52 ± 0.53. Perception was significantly higher among higher-income workers and workers who had rehabilitation services. There was a positive correlation between perception and satisfaction (r = 0.328, p < 0.001). In general, 87.5% of those who were injured returned to work.ConclusionMost injured workers successfully returned to work and expressed generally positive perceptions of SSC rehabilitation services. Enhancing awareness among employers and employees about the value and benefits of rehabilitation could further improve understanding, engagement, and utilization of these services among injured workers.