Chronic Illness Management: Indian Workplace Perspective

Abstract

The present study aims to understand the perspectives of the employer representatives in Indian organizations about the management of chronic illnesses and the resultant disability. Legislative framework and Government of India initiatives were also visited upon to understand the environment prevailing for the Indian organizations in the context of employment of people with chronic illnesses. Qualitative research methodology of thematic analysis was preferred to capture various concerns and challenges faced by employer representatives in employing and maintaining employment of individuals with chronic illness and resultant disability. A total of 20 employer representatives were contacted, out of which 12 agreed to participate. The findings suggest that though visible disability has begun to be acknowledged and embraced in Indian organizations, the invisible and episodic disability caused by various chronic illnesses is still struggling to gather enough accommodation as a distinct diversity group in Indian organizations.