Abstract
Graded work exposure is deemed to have a therapeutic effect. In Germany, graded return-to-work (GRTW) is therefore frequently used following a rehabilitation program if workers are still unable to perform full job duties. The aim of the analyses was to determine long-term effects on disability pension and regular employment. Analyses were performed with longitudinal administrative data. Patients aged between 18 and 60 years who attended orthopedic, cardiac, oncological, or psychosomatic rehabilitation between January and June 2007 and were eligible to participate in a GRTW scheme. The effects of GRTW were analysed by a propensity-score-matched comparison of patients with and without GRTW. The probability of a disability pension was decreased by about 40 percent among GRTW patients (5.4% vs. 8.6%). The three-year income (2007–2009) was €12.920 higher in the GRTW group. The duration of receiving welfare benefits due to sickness absence and unemployment was significantly reduced. Graded work exposure supports labor participation and reduces the risk of permanent work disability.
| Original language | German |
|---|---|
| Title of host publication | Occupational Health and Rehabilitation - New Approaches for Maintaining Work Ability in the Workplace |
| Editors | T. Johansen, W.H. Dittrich |
| Number of pages | 13 |
| Volume | 8 |
| Place of Publication | Wiesbaden |
| Publisher | Springer Gabler |
| Publication date | 2021 |
| Pages | 89-101 |
| ISBN (Print) | 978-3-658-33483-3 |
| DOIs | |
| Publication status | Published - 2021 |
Research Areas and Centers
- Research Area: Center for Population Medicine and Public Health (ZBV)
