Abstract

Background and Aims:

Survivorship following diagnosis of one of the common cancers is increasingly the norm. However cancer survivors continue to report difficulty re-entering the workplace after diagnosis and treatment. This study surveyed occupational health physicians (OHPs) in the UK regarding their perceptions of professional difficulties advising employed cancer survivors, approaches taken by managers to such employees, and the understanding of roles and information flows between therapeutic services and occupational health services and employers.

Methods:

Following a pilot study, a questionnaire exploring the opinions of OHPs regarding supporting cancer survivors' return to work was posted to all members of the UK Society of Occupational Medicine, with a repeat posting two months later. There were 797 respondents (response rate 51%). Responses were analysed for significant correlations with OHP age, sex, qualification level, size of businesses advised and years of experience.

Results:

Responses suggested opportunities for: developing OHPs' knowledge base in relation to prognosis and functional outcomes in patients with a cancer diagnosis; instituting information resources on cancer and work for OHPs; and developing communications skills training. Most respondents felt managers treated referral to OH differently for employees with cancer compared to referral for employees with other diagnoses, with 45% of respondents indicating referral may take place too late to be effective in securing a return to work. A significant lack of understanding of the information requirements of employers and the role of OH by treating doctors was identified.

Discussion:

This survey raises several possible significant barriers to return to work by cancer survivors. Recommendations to ameliorate these are made.