Employers' perspectives on vocational rehabilitation for people with inflammatory arthritis: a qualitative study.

Abstract

Purpose To explore how employers support their employees with inflammatory arthritis (IA) to maintain their job, prevent sick leave and job loss. The study aimed to inform the development of a novel vocational rehabilitation offer, WORK-ON. Materials and methods A qualitative study using semi-structured individual interviews was performed with employer representatives. The analysis followed Kirsti Malterud's systematic text condensation. Results Thirteen interviews were performed from November 2020 to February 2021. Three main themes derived: Support to enable continuous participation in work. All participants facilitated adaptations at the workplace, but found it complicated and time consuming. They demonstrated awareness of the employees' need to balance work and family in everyday life.A trusting relationship between employer and employee. The participants encouraged employees to be open about their condition and asked for mutual respect and a trusting relationship to be able to facilitate support when needed.Need for medical and legislative expertise. The participants engaged with municipal job centres and trade unions, although the cooperation could be challenging. Conclusion The employers supported their employees, emphasising a trusting relationship. They considered prevention of sick leave and job loss to be complicated and asked for medical and legal expertise.