Predictors of successful return to work from HIV-related disability

Authors: Drake, R. E. & Bond, G. R.
Year Published 2004
Publication Journal of HIV/AIDS and Social Services
Volume 3
Number 3
Pages 89-96
Publisher Journal of HIV/AIDS and Social Services
Background

Many individuals with HIV/AIDS experience periods of unemployment as their physical symptoms increase. However, some in treatment do continue or return to employment.

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to compare a sample of individuals with HIV/AIDS who successfully return to employment and those that do not. The factors included disease-related factors and service-related factors.

Setting

The setting was an HIV/AIDS primary care clinic of a large, university-affiliated hospital.

Sample

The study sample consisted of 135 patients whose records indicated that they had successfully regained employment following disease-related job loss. A matched cohort of individuals with HIV/AIDS who had not regained employment was selected as a comparison group.

Data Collection

The data consisted of patient clinical records related to HIV/AIDS treatment and symptoms and services delivered. Statistical analyses consisted of descriptive statistics and analysis of variance (ANOVA).

Control

A matched comparison group was selected consisting of individuals with HIV/AIDS who had not returned to work following disease-related job loss.

Findings

Substance use disorders were more prevalent in those who had not achieved return to work. Those who had returned to work were more likely to have received mental health assessment and treatment.

Conclusions

Mental health services may serve as a gateway to return to work for many individuals with HIV/AIDS. In addition, identifying patients who are already being treated by the mental health team in order to assess their desire and ability to return to work is an important first step in increasing the effectiveness of a return to work program.

URL http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1300/J187v03n03_07?journalCode=whiv20
Disabilities
Populations Male & Female | Hispanic or Latino | American Indian or Alaska Native | Asian | Black / African American | Native Hawaiian / other Pacific Islander | White / Caucasian | Urban
Outcomes Return to work
NIDILRR Funded Not Reported
Research Design Quasi-experimental
Peer Reviewed Yes