Sykefraværsarbeid i praksis - erfaringer og synspunkt fra langtidssykmeldte og ledere. Fokusgruppeintervju av sykmeldte og ledere

Background: Challenges related to an increase in sick leave has led to a new focus on the workplace as the main setting for both prevention and rehabilitation of people on sick leave. Purpose: The aim of our study was to provide an insight into how people on sick leave experience cooperation with their employer, their doctor and the Norwegian Labour and Welfare Services (NAV). Method: Focus groups were used to interview 17 sick-listed employees and 5 employers. Data were analyzed by thematic content analysis. The study is anchored in hermeneutics. Results: The routines for taking care of people on sick leave and the cooperation between people on sick leave and their employers worked well in the company. The main feedback from the employees indicated they wanted to be treated with respect and understanding and to be seen and appreciated, also when on sick leave. All participants said it was a challenge to take sick leave due to non-visible symptoms (included psychical illnesses) and medically unexplained symptoms. Some employees described their doctor as understanding, emphatic and competent, while others talked about problems in communication, lack of understanding and that the doctor showed little interest in cooperating with the workplace and/or NAV. The participants on sick leave wished that NAV could provide case workers that were neutral in regards to the later handling of their case. The employers wanted more contact via phone by NAV, instead of only communicating through paper forms. The people on sick leave described a job adapted to their health as positive. Summary: This study provides insight into how people on sick leave and their employers experience routines and cooperation in regard to sick leave in a company and might be useful in future efforts towards an including working life