A Retrospective Analysis to Profile Employment and Work Stability in Service Users Attending an Allied Health Professional Clinic on an Inflammatory Arthritis Pathway

Health benefits of engagement in employment are well documented (Waddell & Burton, 2006). Inflammatory arthritis (IA) correlates with high work disability; 40% with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) exit the work- force within 5 years... [ view full abstract ]

Health benefits of engagement in employment are well documented (Waddell & Burton, 2006). Inflammatory arthritis (IA) correlates with high work disability; 40% with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) exit the work- force within 5 years of diagnosis (Bevan et al 2009). Early intervention is recognised as key to supporting work ability (Codd et al, 2010, COT 2008). This study profiled employment and work stability in service users (SU) on presentation to an Allied Health Professional (AHP) Clinic on an IA pathway.

Retrospective chart review was completed of SU (n=47) attending 1st appointment at an AHP Clinic on an IA pathway across 2 hospital sites (from which ethics were obtained). Data was collected over 3 months, April –July 2015.

Results:

62% (n=29) were in employment and diversity of occupations was noted. N=5 did not complete the WIS. Analysis of WIS scores highlight that 54% (n=13) obtained a score in the medium-high risk range. N=12 achieved a low risk score of which n=3 were borderline medium risk. N=9 of those not working wished to return to employment/study.

Findings profile levels of work instability with this population at an early stage in disease trajectory and identify occupational therapy (OT) need to support work ability and provide timely intervention to maintain SU paid employment. Profile highlights need for OT in 19% of SU not in employment. Findings reiterate early impact of IA on employment and identify therapy needs within this population. Early vocational screening and intervention is recommended from diagnosis to support positive employment outcomes.