Affiliations: The University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario,
Canada | McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada | Canadian Injured Workers Alliance, Thunder Bay,
Ontario, Canada | Ontario Network of Injured Worker Groups, Hamilton,
Ontario, Canada | Ontario Federation of Labour, Toronto, Ontario,
Canada
Note: [] Address for correspondence: Dr. Lynn Shaw, The University of
Western Ontario, School of Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Health Sciences,
Elborn College, 1201 Western Rd., London, Ontario, N6G 1H1, Canada. Tel.: +1
519 661 2111 x.88971; Fax: +1 519 661 3894; E-mail: [email protected]
Abstract: Objective: The aim of this study is to understand the barriers and
facilitators in brokering knowledge brokering knowledge to help injured workers
make informed decisions about recovery and to support their transitions to
return to work (RTW). Participants: Perceptions of 63 Injured Worker Groups (IWGs) and 43
Health Care Professionals (HCPs) in facilitating and brokering knowledge were
examined. Methods: Critical theory and participatory action research
approaches informed the development of a multi-stakeholder research team and
the study design to support an exploration into knowledge exchange and
transfer. Data was analyzed using a critical occupational perspective to reveal
the source of barriers and to identify the facilitators of the knowledge
exchange and transfer process. Results: Barriers in transferring knowledge included system
barriers, a lack of information accessibility, and problems with variations in
injured worker capacity and experience using information. IWG and HCP
participants lacked expertise in knowledge transfer. Findings also revealed the
interactive knowledge transfer processes that IWGs and HCPs use to help injured
workers understand and use information. Conclusions: Change is required to improve knowledge exchange and
transfer of information for and to persons with injuries and disabilities.
Suggested changes include the development of a sustainable knowledge transfer
community of practice, a best practice guide for knowledge brokers such as IWGs
and HCPs, and a process for ongoing assessment and evaluation of injured worker
information needs and preferences.
Keywords: Knowledge transfer, knowledge brokering, injured workers, consumer groups, health care professionals, return to work transitions
