Including ‘Work as a Treatment Goal’ in the Care for Patients with Chronic Diseases

Abstract

Background The Netherlands faces 60% prevalence of chronic conditions by 2040, impacting societal participation and quality of life. Current clinical care inadequately addresses these consequences, and most hospitals do not integrate occupational health in their care. Objectives To develop a generic person- and work-oriented medical care model (WMCM) based on real life experiences with work-oriented care and supporting the chronically ill in active societal participation. Methods A qualitative research project with a participative approach in one hospital (November 2019 until March 2020). In an expert meeting, a schematic representation of a work-oriented care model was developed. Subsequent discussion rounds, with professionals from different patient groups, iteratively refined the model to a WMCM. Results Consensus was reached after seven rounds of discussion, defining the model’s core elements (1) a combination of biomedical and biopsychosocial approaches, (2) involvement of a clinical occupational physician in the treatment team, (3) a coordinating role for nursing specialists, and (4) incorporation of a work-oriented intervention plan (WoIP) into the treatment plan. Advocating early attention to societal participation, the model emphasises the WoIP and consensus on monitoring indicators. The final goal is a sustainable return to societal participation, considering both quality of life and work. Conclusion It is feasible to develop a generic person- and work-oriented care model for patients with chronic illness within a hospital care setting. Collaboration between healthcare professionals and a specialised occupational physician, with a central role for nurses, is deemed crucial.