Accelerating the return to work (RTW) chances of coronary heart disease (CHD) patients: part 2 - development and validation of a vocational rehabilitation programme

Abstract

Purpose : This paper, part 2 of the two-part paper, reviews return-to-work outcomes among individuals with coronary heart disease, who participated in an experimental field study reported in part 1 of the two-part paper. Study results reflected specific job stressors associated with physical and mental demands among various job tasks. Trends suggest that personality characteristics commonly associated with 'type a' personalities and cardiac disease risk factors may also serve as positive forces that influence return-to-work activity. Methods/Results : Relatively high levels of job satisfaction were reported among most experimental subjects. Despite having high return-to-work expectations, these patients lacked specific strategies and resources to facilitate a concrete return to work action plan. Conclusion : The researchers conclude that it is essential for cardiac rehabilitation staff, when creating a return to work transition for their cardiac patients, to explore the physical and psychosocial dimensions of jobs, the receptivity of the employer, and the accommodations needed to promote a safe and timely return to work.