Affiliations: Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Occupational
Therapy, The University of Western Ontario, Elborn College, London, Ontario, Canada
Note: [] Address for correspondence: Lynn Shaw, School of Occupational
Therapy, Elborn College, The University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada,
N6G 1H1. Tel.: +1 519 661 2111 88971; Fax: +1 519 661 3894; E-mail:
leshaw@uwo.ca
Abstract: This study examined system barriers that precluded injured workers
from accessing services and supports in the return-to-work (RTW) process. A
grounded theory approach was used to investigate injured worker experiences.
Methods included in-depth telephone interviews and the constant comparative
method to analyze the data. Findings revealed that consumers experienced
tensions or a tug-of-war between the RTW system, the health care system, and in
accessing and using knowledge. Over time consumers reflected upon these
tensions and initiated strategies to enhance return to function and RTW.
Insights from consumer-driven strategies that might inform future policy change
and promote positive service delivery for injured workers are examined.
Keywords: Return to work, barriers, facilitators, consumer driven strategies, knowledge transfer
