Background: Many cancer survivors identify limitations in work capacity and experience altered relationships within their workplace, hindering their return to work (RTW). At present there is no standardised approach to occupational rehabilitation of cancer survivors and little is known about barriers to return or preferences regarding intervention from the perspective of Australian survivors and health care providers.
Aims: To explore the impact of cancer diagnosis, perceived and experienced barriers and preferred intervention and support regarding RTW for cancer patients treated with curative intent.
Methods: Focus groups and semi-structured interviews were held with i) providers: multidisciplinary team (MDT) members including medical oncologist, radiation oncologists, psychologist, nurse practitioners, allied health, rehabilitation and occupational physicians (N=15) and general practitioners (N=3), and ii) consumers: cancer survivors (N=16) and a carer (N=1). Topics explored included: impact of cancer diagnosis and treatment; barriers; healthcare staff best able to address barriers; and, preferences for intervention or supports regarding RTW. Audio files were transcribed verbatim and thematic analysis was used to analyse the data to identify themes.
Results: Several themes pertaining to the successful return to work were identified. Survivors indicated that a supportive and flexible work environment was integral in facilitating RTW and/or continuing work whereas the lack of appropriate referral pathways was identified as a potential barrier. Provider focus groups highlighted the need for MDT approaches incorporating the provision of individualised care plans. Potential candidates to deliver the RTW service included practice nurse staff and general practitioners.
Discussion: This study supports the need for a MDT approach to occupational rehabilitation of cancer survivors. This involves a standardised return to work care plan to ensure equitable provision of services, barriers are addressed and continuity care from the tertiary to primary setting. Further research is required to delineate the precise role of healthcare providers in facilitating successful RTW outcomes.