Affiliations: University of Sherbrooke, Center for Action in Work
Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation, Hôpital Charles-LeMoyne
Research Center, Longueuil, QC, Canada | Laval University, Social and Preventive Medicine,
Pavillon Ferdinand-Vandry, QC, Canada
Note: [] Corresponding author: Marie-José Durand, CAPRIT –
Université de Sherbrooke – Campus de Longueuil, 150, Place Charles
LeMoyne 9e étage, Longueuil, QC, J4K 0A8, Canada. Tel.: +1 450 463 1835
ext. 61466; Fax: +1 450 463 6593; E-mail: [email protected]
Abstract: BACKGROUND: Workplace absenteeism is still a curse for developed
countries, and more systematic practices need to be adopted to address this
issue. OBJECTIVE: To review the literature on best practices for managing
work absences related to musculoskeletal or common mental disorders. METHODS: A review was conducted by performing a search in
bibliographic databases and on work-disability research institute websites.
Recommendations regarding work-absence management and return-to-work practices
were extracted from all the retained documents and organized within a
chronological framework. RESULTS: In total, 17 documents were analyzed, leading to
identification of common work-absence management and return-to-work practices,
the importance of a worker support approach, and recommended roles and
responsibilities for stakeholders. These practices were then integrated into a
six-step process: (1) time off and recovery period; (2) initial contact with
the worker; (3) evaluation of the worker and his job tasks; (4) development of
a return-to-work plan with accommodations; (5) work resumption, and (6)
follow-up of the return-to-work process. CONCLUSIONS: Based on this review, we constructed a comprehensive
work-absence management and return-to-work process designed to assist
organizations. Our results indicate that such a process must be included within
a broader policy of health promotion and job retention. Adaptations will be
required for implementation in the workplace.
Keywords: Absenteeism, mental illness, pain, organizational policy, work disability
