Article

The purpose of this study was to identify factors that facilitated or acted as a
barrier to return to work (RTW) for stroke survivors. We applied 3 approaches to
identify the factors. First, we conducted qualitative interviews with 10 stroke
survivors about their RTW experience post stroke. Second, we surveyed 21
vocational specialists about barriers and facilitators of RTW based on their
clinical practice. Last, we interviewed 7 employers who had experience in
interviewing individuals with disabilities or had the authority to make hiring
decisions. Descriptions of barriers and facilitators to RTW from these 3
perspectives were illustrated. Identified components were mapped based on the ICF
framework. From stroke survivors' perspectives, factors affecting employment
after stroke include neurological (motor, cognition, communication), social,
personal, and environmental factors. Vocational specialists described similar
barriers and facilitators of RTW as the stroke survivors but emphasized personal
factors such as flexibility and being realistic in vocational goals. The
employers explained that the candidate's disability plays no role in the hiring
process and indicated that all applicants must meet the essential job
requirements. Some employers described the benefits of having the support of
vocational rehabilitation staff and being able to interact with the vocational
rehabilitation specialists during the hiring process. The interaction allows the
employer to gather initial information (consented to by the job applicant) about
the applicants from the vocational rehabilitation service and to be educated
about any specific needs related to the applicant's medical issues.

Langue : ANGLAIS