Involving patients'significant others (SOs) in OH consultations can help workers recover and return to work (RTW) from sickness absence, a qualitative study finds. The study, by Nicole Snippen and colleagues at the University of Groningen in The Netherlands, was based on independently monitored focus-group interviews with 21 workers. All the participants had been referred to an OH physician because of sickness absence caused by a chronic disease. Their inclusion in the study was independent of whether or not they had experience of involving SOs in the OH process.The semi-structured interviews covered participants' experiences of and opinions on involving SOs in OH consultations, ways to involve SOs, advantages and disadvantages of doing so, and whether or not they should be involved at all. Thematic analysis revealed that participants held generally positive views on involving SOs in OH consultations and would appreciate being offered the opportunity to involve them. They also felt that OH physicians should explain the potential benefits of involving SOs. Most participants said their preference would be to bring their SO to the OH consultation. However, if this was not possible -for example, because of the SO's other obligations - the SO could attend by videoconference or could help in other ways, such as by compiling a list of questions or issues to be discussed at the consultation. SOs were seen by participants as a source of emotional support, which could 'reduce worries one might have about visiting an OH physician'. They could also help by providing support during the RTW process, such as by being involved in making decisions about RTW goals and how to achieve them, and in remembering the advice and information provided by the physician.
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