Collaboration between general practice and sickness benefits office - A Scoping Review

Abstract

Abstract Background Effective collaboration among stakeholders is essential in supporting return to work (RTW) processes for individuals on sick leave. Yet sickness benefits office and general practice experience a lack of collaboration. This is echoed by individuals on sick leave. This scoping review aim to map existing literature on collaboration between sickness benefits office and general practice in RTW processes to identify both collaboration activities and underlying conditions influencing the collaboration. Methods A systematic search of peer reviewed literature was conducted across five databases in March 2023. Screening and data extraction were conducted by two independent researchers. Extracted data was mapped and activities and underlying conditions were analyzed following descriptive thematic analysis. Tentative results were discussed with a reference group. Results Among the 7471 papers screened, 21 met the inclusion criteria. Certificates was the most common collaboration activity. Of underlying conditions far more barriers compared to facilitators were identified. Barriers encompassed conflicting opinions, opposing roles, communicating via certificates, and time. Facilitators included personal communication and knowledge. Conclusions The number of included papers reflects a limited emphasis on this domain within research endeavors. The prevalence of barriers outweighing facilitators underscores the challenges inherent in this collaboration. General practice is depicted as advocating for their patients while the sickness benefits office pushes for return to work. Scarcity of time induces several challenges, impacting e.g., availability for personal communication and delays. Key messages • Stereotyping and opposing roles, poor communication and time constraints are major barriers that need to be addressed to enhance future collaboration. • Meetings and mutual knowledge about working conditions including legislations and procedures benefit the collaboration.