Affiliations: The University of Western Ontario, London,
Ontario | The Canadian Injured Workers Alliance
Note: [] Address for correspondence: Dr. Lynn Shaw, The University of
Western Ontario, School of Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Health Sciences,
Elborn College, 1201 Western Rd., London, Ontario, N6G 1H1 Canada. Tel.: +1 519
661 2111 x.88971; Fax: +1 519 661 3894; E-mail: leshaw@uwo.ca
Abstract: Background: Historically the supports available to help injured
workers transition back to pre-injury jobs focused primarily on the medical
treatment of the injury and modifications in the workplace. However, for many
injured workers, with chronic disabilities, the need for support extends to
learning to live with newly exposed disabilities, managing changes within
family and social life as well as meeting new expectations in claims and health
management. Supports that many injured workers require to resume employment are
not adequately addressed. Objective: A critical social perspective was used to engage a
partnership with injured worker group members in the design, implementation and
evaluation of injured worker needs to promote social change. This paper
reflects a program of research established in partnership with the Canadian
Injured Worker Alliance to develop and examine a conceptual framework of
supports for use in meeting the transitional needs of injured workers with
chronic disabilities. Occupational and educational perspectives were used to
develop a conceptual framework comprised of 8 dimensions of support. Method: A regional needs assessment using multi-methods,
including surveys, interviews and focus groups, was conducted in British
Columbia (BC). Priorities of three stakeholder groups were mapped to the 8
dimensions of support. This conceptual framework was also tested nationally to
evaluate the distribution of supports that exist and identify further needs for
support to help injured workers manage multiple transitions. Findings: Access to the range of supports that injured workers
need in transitioning to and from work is inconsistent and inequitable across
Canada. Conclusion: Collaborative approaches and a broader spectrum of
resources and supports are needed to help injured workers and their families in
resuming meaningful participation in daily, social and productive
occupations.
Keywords: Occupational transitions, injured workers, supports, return to work
