Supporting workers with post-COVID condition in returning to work is critical. Qualitative evidence may provide insight into the complex factors shaping this process and inform intervention and policy development.
Objective
To identify and synthesize qualitative evidence on barriers and facilitators influencing return to work following post-COVID condition.
Methods
We conducted a scoping review using the Arksey and O’Malley framework, refined by Levac et al. MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, and Scopus were searched from inception to July 2025. Eligible qualitative and mixed-methods studies examined barriers and facilitators to returning to work among working-age adults with post-COVID condition or healthcare professionals involved in their care. Data were synthesized using critical interpretive synthesis, informed by the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health framework.
Results
Twenty-nine qualitative or mixed-methods studies (n=1902 participants) were included. Barriers and facilitators operated across domains within broader organizational and systemic contexts. Fluctuating, unpredictable symptoms were major barriers, while gradual rehabilitation and energy management facilitated return to work. Mismatches between work capacity and job demands limited work participation. Environmental barriers included stigma, inflexible policies, limited accommodations, and financial or compensation pressures, while facilitators included flexible work arrangements, supportive leadership, and collaborative planning. Guilt and fear of underperformance were personal barriers, while acceptance and motivation facilitated return to work. Specialists identified fragmented services and limitations of current care models as systemic concerns.
Conclusions
Post-COVID condition necessitates flexible, multidisciplinary return-to-work models that accommodate symptom variability and address psychosocial needs. Improved coordination across healthcare, workplace, and social systems is essential for sustainable workforce participation.
Registration
The review protocol was publicly registered on the Open Science Framework prior to screening and was approved by all team members (https://osf.io/nrbu5/).
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