HEALTHCARE professionals working with people with inflammatory arthritis (IA) report that emotional, economic and social barriers significantly impact patients’ ability to stay employed. For doctors and rehabilitation providers in the U.S., this research offers important insights into how chronic illness intersects with job security and workplace dynamics.
The study by Madsen AB and colleagues interviewed 21 healthcare professionals across multiple settings including hospitals, municipalities, a university college and a patient organization. Using a hermeneutic method and content analysis, the researchers identified three key themes related to work and inflammatory arthritis: the disruption of work identity, support challenges, and employer cooperation.
Healthcare providers described how people with IA struggle to manage their roles at work due to physical limitations and emotional distress. This often leads to financial strain and identity loss. While professionals are motivated to support patients in retaining employment, their efforts are hindered when patients do not disclose their condition to employers, making it difficult to coordinate workplace accommodations.
Organizational factors also pose obstacles. Limited cross-sector collaboration and lack of involvement from patients’ relatives reduce the effectiveness of rehabilitation efforts. On the other hand, when employers are informed and involved, patients are more likely to access compensatory schemes and flexible arrangements that help them remain in the workforce.
The authors conclude that vocational rehabilitation must be continuous, beginning at diagnosis and integrating efforts from hospitals, municipalities, and workplace stakeholders. For American clinicians and rehab professionals, the message is clear: improved interprofessional communication and early intervention can help prevent the downward spiral from diagnosis to job loss.
Reference:
Madsen AB. Healthcare Professionals’ Experiences with Vocational Rehabilitation for People with Inflammatory Arthritis. J Occup Rehabil. 2025. doi: 10.1007/s10926-025-10297-0.
