A Model System for Overcoming Physical Work Barriers

Abstract

A model system is proposed to help understand the relationship between personal and work factors that affect participation in work. The proposed model includes a hierarchical open-ended format for considering worker and job properties with special emphasis on musculoskeletal disorders. The first level of the analysis is based on information that can be obtained from interviewing patients, workers, supervisors and health care providers, and provides broad categories of information that can be used to anticipate barriers to working and to plan further studies to evaluate and overcome barriers. The sequence and depth of subsequent analysis depends on the circumstances, e.g., finding a new job, returning to work following an injury, or a new job design. If the worker is undergoing medical treatment, the treating health care provider usually has final authority for the return to work decisions, although the decisions can be greatly influenced by job information provided. Two cases are presented to illustrate development and application of the model.