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Purpose To describe exploratory findings and lessons learned from the discontinued WAVE trial, which sought to determine the effectiveness and costs of adding an early vocational advice intervention to usual primary care on number of days of sickness absence over 6 months. Methods Pragmatic, multicentre, two-parallel arm, superiority, randomised controlled trial with health economic analysis in 10 general practices in England, with nested qualitative interviews. Adults with fit notes for any health condition, absent from work >= 2 weeks and <= 6 months were invited to participate. Participants were randomised (1 : 1) to usual primary care with/without vocational advice delivered by trained Vocational Support Workers. The planned sample size was 720, the first 4 months of recruitment served as an internal pilot phase and the primary outcome was self-reported days of work absence over 6 months. Results One hundred and thirty participants were recruited from 7955 invitations (May 2022-May 2023) before trial closure (64 usual care, 66 usual care plus vocational advice). Exploratory analysis of 125 participants (with outcome data) indicated small additional benefits of the vocational advice intervention over usual care [mean days absence = 37.86 (standard deviation = 48.76) vs. usual care = 42.66 (standard deviation = 57.67), incidence rate ratio = 0.913, 80% confidence interval (0.653 to 1.276)]. The vocational advice intervention was delivered remotely [mean = 4.8 contacts (range 1-12)]. Partial health economic evaluation found lower work productivity losses at 6 months after vocational advice intervention (5513.84, standard deviation = 7101.43) compared to usual care (6146.21, standard deviation = 8431.88). Conclusions Exploratory analysis indicated a signal of effect, with differences in the number of days absent from work, costs and secondary outcomes. Key lessons learned included the need for closer working with primary care teams and more flexible recruitment methods. A future fully powered randomised controlled trial of vocational advice intervention added to usual primary care is needed to determine the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness.

© Wynne-Jones G; Lewis M; Sowden G; Madan I; Walker-Bone K; Chew-Graham CA; Bromley K; Jowett S; Parsons V; Mansell G; Cooke K; Saunders B; Harrison R; Lawton SA; Wathall S; Pemberton J; Hammond J; Cooper C; Foster ANE. Health Technology Assessment. 1-32, 2026 Jan 28.
 

Purpose This study aimed to develop and validate the Health Impairment Grief Scale (HIGS) to assess grief reactions among sick-listed employees experiencing health loss, thereby increasing understanding of their emotional experiences during sickness absence. Methods The 10-item HIGS was developed with input from academic experts in grief and labor, occupational health professionals, and sick-listed employees. Psychometric evaluation of the HIGS was conducted using data from 226 sick-listed employees. Participants were mostly women (81%), highly educated (52%), were on average 49.3 years old, and have been sick-listed for 90.3 weeks. Results The HIGS demonstrated a unidimensional structure, robust internal consistency, and temporal stability. Additionally, its items showed clear differentiation from symptoms of depression and anxiety, and exhibited solid convergent validity. These findings indicate that individuals can experience grief due to health problems. Conclusions This study identifies health loss-related grief as a distinct psychological phenomenon among sick-listed employees. The association between health loss-related grief and pre-job loss grief suggests that employees may face interconnected emotional challenges during return-to-work. The HIGS provides rehabilitation professionals with a valid tool to identify grief reactions in return-to-work assessments, enabling recognition of employees who may require support that addresses both health-related and anticipated work-related losses.

© van Eersel JHW; Hulshof IL; van Os LS; Smid GE; Boelen PA. Disability & Rehabilitation. 1-13, 2026 Feb 06.
 

Purpose Sickness absence and disability incurs negative effects on both individuals and society as a whole. This necessitates more knowledge about the possible factors and mechanisms that perpetuate sickness absence, increasing the risk of permanent exclusion from the labour market. The aim of this study is to evaluate a proposed conceptual framework and questionnaire for barriers for return to work. Here, barriers are understood as iatrogenic effects of sickness absence that create a lock-in effect which impedes return to work and contributes to an exclusion trap. Methods A questionnaire has been administered as part of a larger survey issued to patients prior to assessment in a Norwegian Sickness Absence Clinic (NSAC). We explored responses from individuals on sickness absence to the questionnaire, correlations between the questionnaire and work -and health-related measurement instruments, inter-item correlations and Cronbach's alfa. Results We observed associations between the barrier items and work -and health-related measurement instruments. The questionnaire demonstrates a strong internal consistency, with a Cronbach's Alfa of 0.83. Results indicate a need for revision of the questionnaire. Conclusions Patients on sickness absence reported several barriers for return to work. The most prevalent barriers, reflecting cognitions about health, agreed with our proposed conceptual framework of barriers for return to work as iatrogenic effects of sickness absence. Exploring patients' cognitions in the return-to-work process and intervening on them through well-established intervention strategies like graded exposure and belief change, could be of potential importance in reducing detrimental side effects of sickness absence.

© Myhrer M; Brinchmann B; Trichet L; Aars NA; Mykletun A. BMC Public Health. 2026 Feb 12.
 

Purpose Workers' compensation claims can negatively affect the wellbeing of injured workers. For some, these negative effects continue beyond finalisation of the workers' compensation claim. It is unclear what factors influence wellbeing following finalisation of a workers' compensation claim. Therefore, the aim of this study was to explore wellbeing through the lived experience of individuals who have finalised a workers' compensation claim in the state of Western Australia. Methods A qualitative study with individual, in-depth, semi-structured interviews was performed (n = 20, 55% female, average claim length 22.9 months, average time since claim end 33.4 months). Claim finalisation modes included full medical recovery, claim settlement with permanent impairment, direct settlement with the insurer and settlement with the insurer facilitated by a lawyer. The interview schedule was informed by a previous scoping review and cross-sectional survey completed by this research team. Qualitative data were analysed utilising a reflexive, interpretative phenomenological analysis approach. Results Five superordinate and their associated subordinate themes were identified; (1) The role of support; (2) Stigma and discrimination; (3) A new normal; (4) The importance of information; and (5) Recommended resources. Conclusions Injured workers experience a range of outcomes related to their wellbeing and employment following the finalisation of their workers' compensation claim. Based on their experiences, resources to facilitate a transition and adjustment to life following a claim have been suggested by injured workers, including information regarding seeking employment, seeking welfare support, educational materials regarding future expectations, and individualised support care packages.

© Weir J; Fary R; Lee S; Mitchell T; Johnston V; Wyatt M; Guthrie R; Myers B; Beales D.  Journal of Occupational Rehabilitation. 36(1):314-328, 2026 Mar.
 

Purpose Registered nurses (RNs), the largest group of healthcare professionals, experience high rates of work-related injury leading to work absence. Transitional duty (TD) refers to structured programs designed to facilitate a safe and timely return to work by preserving and rebuilding employees' functional capacity through temporary, modified job assignment. This study examines RNs' lived experiences in a TD program to gain insight into its impact on six key dimensions of wellness. Methods This qualitative, interpretive phenomenological study, explored the lived experiences of RNs' participating in a TD program following a work-related or personal injury. Semi-structured, in-person interviews were conducted with RNs from a large healthcare organization in Hawaii. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using deductive thematic analysis informed by the Six Dimensions of Wellness model. Trustworthiness was enhanced through independent coding, peer debriefing, and consensus discussions between researchers. This study was reported in accordance with the Standards for Reporting Qualitative Research guidelines. Results Eleven RNs participated in the study. They described how the TD program supported their recovery and reintegration by addressing occupational, physical, social, intellectual, spiritual, and emotional needs, enabling professional engagement, personal fulfillment, and overall wellness through flexible, structured, and purposeful workplace support. Conclusion The findings from this study suggest that TD programs play a crucial role in facilitating RNs' return to work after medical absence. The TD program effectively supported injured RNs in returning to their full-time roles, offering a structured approach that promoted recovery, professional engagement, and overall wellness.

© Azama K; Chee J. Workplace Health & Safety.21650799261418152, 2026 Feb 25.

Purpose Occupational health professionals (OHPs) collaborate to support return to work (RTW) for employees on long-term sick leave, but differences in roles and perspectives can result in inconsistent work ability assessments. To promote a shared understanding of work ability, the ICF (International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health)-based Work Ability & Reintegration Description (WARD) instrument was developed. This study evaluated its psychometric properties, in particular criterion validity and reliability. Methods A mixed-methods study was conducted in three phases. Firstly, a reference standard set for assessing work ability in 10 case vignettes was established employing the Modified Delphi method with nine OHPs. Secondly, 22 OHPs independently assessed work ability with the WARD-instrument, for which overall agreement with the reference standard, and inter-rater reliability were calculated. Thirdly, a focus group with eight OHPs explored sources of variation for assessing work ability with WARD. Results Agreement with the reference standard ranged from 58.6% to 99.5%. High agreement (> 70%) was found for 23 out of 29 items. Specificity (59.7%-99.5%) generally exceeded sensitivity (18.2%-95.5%), indicating greater consistency in ruling out non-relevant items than in identifying relevant ones. Focus group discussions emphasized that assessments should be context-dependent to support rehabilitation purposes. Conclusion The WARD-instrument shows promising criterion validity and reliability, especially for objectifiable and physical aspects of functioning. More complex and context-dependent domains, such as cognitive aspects of functioning and personal factors, remain challenging to consistently assess among different OHPs. Its focus on identifying context-sensitive RTW barriers may support more person-centered sick leave guidance. Further research in real-life practice is needed to strengthen validation and guide implementation.

© Kreuger DCC; Donker-Cools BHPM; Oomens SPCJ; Anema JR; Suijkerbuijk YB; Schaafsma FG. Journal of Occupational Rehabilitation.  2026 Feb 22.
 

Purpose The Seven Principles for Successful Return to Work can be used to guide the return-to-work process. The purpose of this study was to understand the relevance of these principles and their key concepts to return-to-work practices, and how they are being applied in practice to guide return-to-work from the perspectives of disability managers, case managers and return-to-work consultants. Methods We recruited Canadian disability managers, case managers and return-to-work consultants from workplaces, workers' compensation boards and third-party disability management companies. Twelve participants participated in virtual semi-structured interviews about the Seven Principles for Successful Return to Work and their associated concepts (i.e., modified work). We used interpretive description to analyze the transcripts, and two coders performed the thematic analysis. Results Participants explained how each principle was applied in practice, and the relevance of the principles in their work, identifying that 5 of 7 principles were relevant to their specific field of practice. We identified 5 themes that identified how the concepts within the principles supported return-to-work processes: Communication is critical; The disability manager should be responsible for coordinating return-to-work with the collaboration of stakeholders; Objective and accurate medical information is required in a timely manner; Modified work must be meaningful, productive, and safe; Workplace culture impacts return-to-work. Conclusion Although most principles were relevant, we identified two less relevant principles in some disability management contexts due to the constraints of their work (return-to-work that does not disadvantage other workers; communication between the workplace and the healthcare provider). The principles represent key concepts which can support return-to-work planning for disability management professionals. 

© Killip SC; MacDermid JC; Ziebart C; Gewurtz RE; Sinden KE. Journal of Occupational Rehabilitation.  2026 Feb 21.

Purpose Work-related anxiety can result in prolonged work incapacity and reduce return-to-work probabilities. Despite the prevalence of work-related anxiety in somatic rehabilitation settings, there has been little research examining the experiences of affected patients from a public health perspective. This research project aims to address this gap by providing initial insights into the care provided to patients with somatic complaints and patients with additional work-related anxiety. Methods A sequential mixed methods approach was employed, beginning with semi-structured interviews (2022, n = 18 orthopedic rehabilitation patients), followed by questionnaire distribution (2023, n = 53). Qualitative analysis distinguished between patients with higher (JA) and lower (nJA) Job Anxiety Scale scores (cut-off 2.5). Results The findings highlight notable differences between JA and nJA patients. JA patients often report that they face unmet psychological needs, limited work-related treatment focus, financial barriers, and inadequate occupational support, relying more on self-initiative for reliable information. In contrast, nJA patients appear to benefit from stronger social networks, stable financial resources, and improved access to healthcare. Both groups report mixed experiences with workplace support. For professionals the findings underline that JA patients are specifically in need of work-related interventions, even patients themselves remind about this. Conclusions The findings illustrate significant differences between JA and nJA patients in terms of their experiences, challenges, and support needs within healthcare, workplace, and rehabilitation contexts. While qualitatively insightful, these findings are pilot and explorative and warrant further research.

© Kleist L; Weisenstein F; Muschalla B; Kuhn L; Wengemuth E; Choi KA. International Journal of Environmental Research & Public Health. 23(1), 2026 Jan 20.

Purpose Mental health issues are highly prevalent among precarious workers, often leading to prolonged sickness absence and unemployment. A worker's perceptions and attitudes about return-to-work are important determinants of work resumption and can be categorized into three modes: an expectant, an ambivalent-uncertain, and an active return-to-work mode. To support professionals in identifying these modes, we developed the REturn-to-work MODe Evaluation (REMODE) tool. This study evaluated REMODE's inter-rater agreement, inter-item consistency, content validity, and usability. Methods In a vignette study, 71 occupational health professionals from a Dutch social security institute viewed six videos of consultations between insurance physicians and precarious workers. They then used REMODE to assess the worker's return-to-work mode and need for occupational support. Participants also rated REMODE's validity and usability with 5-point Likert scale questions based on the Content Validity Index and System Usability Scale. We used a generalized linear mixed model to analyse inter-rater agreement and inter-item consistency. Results The professionals highly agreed on the REMODE-score [ICC 0.87 (95% CI 0.63-0.97)] and corresponding return-to-work mode [ICC 0.83 (0.54-0.95), Kappaomega 0.75 (0.74-0.75)]. Their agreement on need for occupational support was moderate [ICC 0.65 (0.30-0.89), Kappaomega 0.57 (0.56-0.57)]. REMODE's internal consistency demonstrated excellence (Cronbach's alpha 0.92), and the content validity index (0.83) and system usability scale (76) were acceptable. Conclusion REMODE is a promising tool for occupational health professionals as it supports identification of the return-to-work mode of precarious workers with mental health issues. We propose a refined version of RE-MODE for use in occupational healthcare and research.

© Suijkerbuijk YB; Schaafsma FG; Jansen LP; Nieuwenhuijsen K. European Journal of Public Health. 2026 Feb 02.
 

Purpose Elimination of burnout and work-related mental illness in hospital doctors, at least in the short term, is unrealistic. Supporting doctors' recovery continues to be important. Despite this, the aftermath of work-related mental illness and burnout, is not well understood. Methods Using a descriptive phenomenological method, we describe the experience of coming to terms with mental crisis perceived to be caused or exacerbated by work stress for six senior consultant hospital doctors. Results Findings show that, in the aftermath of crisis, doctors engaged in two types of reflection: 'situational sense-making' to make sense of their experiences and 'transformative self-reflection', reflection in a deeper way on the experience, themselves and their lives. Transformative self-reflection led to change and in some cases growth. Not all doctors engaged in transformative self-reflection, and the process of recovery was complicated by contextual factors and when support from employers was perceived as absent, poor or acrimonious.

© Walsh GN; Freeney Y; Dunne S; Hayes B. Journal of Health Psychology. 31(1):25-40, 2026 Jan.
 

Purpose Prior studies demonstrate that many injured workers find involvement in workers’ compensation processes complex and stressful. This study sought to identify experiences, events and interactions contributing to system-generated mental ill health. Methods Mixed methods design utilising an online survey and follow-up interviews. Eligible participants were workers employed in Australia, at least 18 years of age, proficient in English, who had submitted a compensation claim. Survey items assessed demographic and claim information, claim experiences, and impacts of interactions with claim stakeholders and processes. Between September 2023 and July 2024, the survey was distributed through community organisations, worker support groups, and social media. Qualitative interviews took place between February and July 2024. Results A total of 533 participants completed the survey, and 20 completed an interview. Most survey participants (n = 503, Medianage = 45–54 years, 59.2% women) reported negative mental health impacts. Of those, 279 reported negative experiences throughout the claim process, while the remainder reported more positive or mixed experiences. Hierarchical logistic regression indicated that negative interactions with insurers (OR = 5.22, 95%CI [1.89, 14.42]) and delays in claim approval (OR = 4.12, 95%CI [1.88, 8.99]) were significantly associated with negative claim experiences. The full logistic regression model accounted for 40% of the variation in claim experiences. Qualitative analysis of injured workers revealed themes around claim-related sources of stress and negative consequences from illness or injury. Conclusion Findings provide insights into modifiable aspects of compensation claim processes that, if actioned, may improve worker experiences during their claim and reduce the risk of secondary psychological injury.

© Sanatkar, S., Pritchard, E., Callaway, L., Cruickshank, G., Grant, G., Godic, B., MacEachen, E., Thompson, J., Di Donato, M., Gray, S., Collie, A. Journal of Occupational Rehabilitation. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10926-026-10364-0
 

Purpose Work ability and work-related outcomes (labor force participation, occupation, and educational attainment) are important for young adult-aged survivors of adolescent and young adult cancer (YAs). This study evaluates work-related outcomes and explores the role of workplace accommodations among YAs aged 25-34 years. Methods For this cross-sectional study, YAs (N = 209) completed measures of educational attainment, labor force participation, occupation, work ability, and workplace accommodations. Work ability was assessed using the Work Ability Index and Work Limitations Questionnaire productivity loss index. We compared work-related outcomes with national benchmarks; analysis of variance models examined associations among work ability, work-related outcomes, and workplace accommodations. Results Participant education and employment were greater than national benchmarks. Among employed cancer survivors (N = 176), individuals with less education reported lower work ability (F = 3.99, p = 0.004) and greater productivity loss (F = 4.21, p = 0.003) than those with higher levels of education. Workplace accommodations were a significant predictor of work ability; those with accommodations reported lower work ability (F = 3.99, p = 0.004) and greater productivity loss (F = 4.21, p = 0.003). Conclusions While YAs in this sample generally demonstrated higher employment and educational attainment rates than the national average, those with lower educational levels face greater challenges in work ability. Workplace accommodations may only be provided to individuals experiencing the greatest deficits in work ability and productivity. This study highlights the need for additional data regarding workplace accommodations to enhance work ability and mitigate productivity loss among YAs.

© Ingram KM; Tooze JA; Castellino SM; McLean KA; Salsman JM; Ghazal LV; Miller H; Wade JL 3rd; Behrens RJ; Sandberg JC; Strom C; Arcury TA; Lesser GJ; Danhauer SC. Journal of Adolescent & Young Adult Oncology. 21565333261418478, 2026 Feb 03.

Purpose Cancer-related cognitive impairment (CRCI) can impact cancer survivors' return to work and occupational functioning for many years following the completion of cancer treatment. Understanding the characteristics of CRCI-related occupational difficulties and unmet supportive care needs is critical for the development of effective interventions. Within occupational roles, a higher level of education is typically associated with greater cognitive load and different demands. The objective of this study was to examine whether the level of education accounted for CRCI-related (a) occupational difficulties and (b) occupational unmet supportive care needs, beyond the contributions of perceived cognitive functioning and employment level. Methods A cross-sectional design was utilised using a sub-section of an existing self-reported dataset involving 358 employed cancer survivors, comprising demographic and clinical data, as well as data from MASCC COG-IMPACT and PROMIS Cog tools. Hierarchical multiple linear regression models were used for hypothesis testing. Results After accounting for perceived cognitive functioning and employment level, highest level of education did not account for a significant amount of unique variance in CRCI-related occupational difficulties (R2 Change = 0.004, F Change (1, 354) = 3.26, p = .147). However, after accounting for perceived cognitive functioning and employment level, highest level of education did account for a significant amount of unique variance in CRCI-related occupational unmet needs (R2 Change = 0.011, F Change (1, 354) = 4.75, p = .030). Conclusion Theoretical explanations of findings, including compensatory accommodations such as role adjustment and differences in the availability of occupational support, are provided. It is proposed that those with higher levels of education may not have access to appropriate levels of supportive care as it relates to CRCI in occupational settings, thus potentially informing future interventions. It is proposed that individuals with higher levels of education may experience gaps in supportive care for CRCI, particularly in relation to maintaining work performance and meeting occupational expectations. This suggests that future interventions should consider strategies to better support cognitive functioning in workplace contexts for cancer survivors.

© Haywood D; Rossell SL; Henneghan A; Baughman FD; Haywood J; Dauer E; Hegde A; Moustafa AA; Hart NH. Supportive Care in Cancer. 34(3):188, 2026 Feb 12.

Purpose Health professionals are at increased breast cancer(BC) risk. Occupational factors are likely contributory, especially nightwork. Return to work for women with BC has received much attention. However, systematic review of return-to-work among health professionals with BC is lacking. Objective: To perform systematized review of the return-to-work literature on health professionals with BC. Methods PRISMA and ENTREQ guidelines were followed, searching PUBMED, CINAHL, PsycINFO and Web-of-Science. Results From 2242 publications, 33 primarily qualitative studies addressed return-to-work among health professionals with BC. Fourteen return-to-work studies included some health professionals with BC. Ten studies addressed return-to-work among health professionals with cancer; 264 of whom had BC. Of nine case-studies/self-reports of health professionals with BC, seven worked within oncology. Occasionally-mentioned baseline working conditions included long workhours, nightshifts and busy schedules/multi-tasking. Particular concerns regarding chemotherapy for health professionals were infection risk, fatigue, cognitive function and appearance, the latter often impacting BC disclosure to patients. Emotional burdens when confronting patients' health problems while afflicted with BC were highlighted.  Occasionally-implemented modifications with return-to-work were shortened workhours, nightwork elimination, modified duties or job change. Salutogenic developments with return-to-work included emotional rewards: feeling needed and enhanced sensitivity/empathy for patients with cancer. Issues surrounding the initial BC diagnosis were very delicate for health professionals. Three oncology nurses with BC were diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder. Conclusions Much more attention should be directed to the occupational needs as well as potential contributions of health professionals with BC. Participatory action research should guide intervention studies aimed at identifying the healthiest RTW options for this special cohort.

© Belkic K; Wilczek B. Work.10519815251410109, 2026 Feb 16.
 

Purpose The increasing prevalence of breast cancer entails multidimensional challenges regarding its impact on patients' physical, psychosocial, and emotional health. Scientific literature shows that breast cancer survivors face significant difficulties in returning to work, which is closely linked to impaired work ability. Moreover, depression -which affects a high percentage of these women- is associated with a reduced perception of their capacity to perform work-related tasks. Emotional intelligence has been identified as a key factor that may mitigate or exacerbate these difficulties. Objective: To analyze the processes through which perceived emotional intelligence and depression mediate the relationship between breast cancer survivorship and work ability. Method 821 women participated, divided into two groups: 233 breast cancer survivors and 580 healthy controls. The Work Ability Index, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, and the Trait Meta-Mood Scale were administered. Results Compared to healthy controls, breast cancer survivors exhibited lower work ability and perceived emotional intelligence, along with higher levels of depression. The overall explanatory power of the mediation model was 37.7%. Work ability was found to be directly impacted by both the experience of breast cancer and the presence of depressive symptoms. Of the six identified indirect effects -both risk and protective- the one with the highest statistical weight predicted improved work ability in breast cancer survivors through the mediated influence of low emotional attention and reduced levels of depression. Conclusions Psychological interventions should aim to reduce risk factors and enhance protective pathways to promote successful return to work after hospital treatments.

© Guil R; Baena-Guil MP; Ruiz-Gonzalez P; Ordonez-Mora LT; Gil-Olarte P. Acta Psychologica. 263:106248, 2026 Mar.
 

Purpose We aimed to develop an online vocational rehabilitation (VR) readiness screening (VRRS) tool for young adults diagnosed with cancer. VR readiness was defined as being physically and cognitively ready to enter or return to work or school. Methods We developed an initial VRRS tool informed by previous studies, a scoping review to determine such a tool had not already been developed, and consultation with subject matter experts. We iteratively refined the tool on the basis of four rounds of interviews with young adults with cancer. The refined VRRS was then administered online to patients before they attended scheduled clinic appointments. We evaluated the VRRS completion rate; the ability of the online VRRS tool to assess patients' readiness for VR; and the concordance between clinical interview and that of the online VRRS tool, which was determined by using Cohen's kappa or a fitting alternative; kappa >= .61 suggested clinical utility. Results The proportion of study participants completing the VRRS was 72.3% (136/188, 95% CI [65.4%, 78.6%]) and 69.2% (81/117, 95% CI [60.0%, 77.4%]) of participants who completed a clinical interview also completed the online VRRS tool. All clinical interview determinations and 93.8% (76/81) of online VRRS tool indicated participants' VR readiness. The VRRS-clinical interview agreement rate was 93.8% (95% CI [86.2%, 98.0%]). The prevalence index, bias index, and prevalence- and bias-adjusted kappa statistic with 95% CIs were 0.938 [- 0.991, - 0.886], 0.062 [0.009, 0.114], and 0.877 [0.724, 0.959], respectively. Conclusion The VRRS tool is thus both feasible and effective in this sample of young adults with cancer.

© Robert R; Andersen CR; Murphy KM; Medina-George S; Scardaville M; Conley SR; Farris D; Roth M; Nguyen V; Frieden L.  Journal of Occupational Rehabilitation. 36(1):262-273, 2026 Mar.
 

Purpose As cancer survival rates increase in Canada, a growing number of working-age individuals face challenges returning to work after treatment. This study examines the experiences of Canadian cancer survivors who remained in or returned to the workforce during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods Participants were cancer survivors aged 25-62 who had been employed prior to their diagnosis. They completed a brief online survey about their return-to-work (RTW) experiences and were invited to participate in a semi-structured interview. Seven participants took part in the interviews, which were transcribed and analyzed through inductive thematic analysis. Results Four overarching themes emerged: (1) The Perfect Storm of Systemic Challenges, highlighting healthcare barriers exacerbated by the pandemic; (2) You Are Not Alone, emphasizing the importance of social support in mitigating isolation; (3) One Size Does Not Fit All - Individual Journeys, reflecting the need for flexible workplace accommodations and patient self-advocacy; and (4) Creating a "New Normal," illustrating how survivors reassessed priorities, work identities, and personal well-being. Participants described delayed treatments, lack of fertility options, and limited support during appointments due to pandemic restrictions. Workplace accommodations varied, with some survivors feeling supported while others faced inflexibility. Conclusions Findings emphasized the need for improved healthcare responsiveness, personalized RTW accommodations, and improved employer training to support cancer survivors. The study also reveals how the COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated existing systemic gaps, underscoring the importance of preparing healthcare and employment systems to better support vulnerable populations during times of crisis.

© Tran C; Kane D; Rajacich D; Lafreniere K; Hamm C. PLoS ONE. 21(2):e0342935, 2026.