'Tools for Two'. Optimizing work functioning: New diagnostic instruments for concerted action by Occupational Health Care and Human Resources Management

Summary:

Optimal work participation is increasingly valued from a societal as well as from a health management point of view. Prevention programs with a focus on optimal social participation, i.e. participation in work, are a rather new point of view. Outcome measures related to work functioning with a focus on health aspects of functioning are scarce.

An extensive literature search will be performed to inventory and discuss existing outcome measures on work functioning. Based on these findings and information obtained by extensive consultation of the disciplines involved, a measure will be developed. The aim is to develop a measure that can evaluate work functioning in relation to health and help to facilitate participation and reintegration in case of health problems. These health problems can be either chronic or temporary as in reintegration. This new measure will be pre-tested regarding comprehensiveness, completeness, feasibility, and psychometric properties. However, the validity and responsiveness of the instrument will be examined. Developing a reliable and valid instrument to assess work functioning will provide a new outcome next to the traditional outcome measures of return to work and a guidance  tool for practitioners in the occupational and insurance medicine field.