World Federation of Occupational Therapists Bulletin · 2010 · 11 citations · 14 references
MedicineOncologyCancer RehabilitationCancer Survivorship CareOccupational HealthCancer SurvivorshipOccupational RehabilitationReturn-to-work PlanningReturn-to-work RehabilitationReturn-to-work SupportSurvivorship RehabilitationBreast Cancer RehabilitationCancer Return-to-workClinical Guidelines For Return-to-workPrognostic Factors In Return-to-workRehabilitation In Cancer CareReturn-to-work Outcomes MeasurementSurvivorship Employment SupportSurvivorship Quality Of Life
For people surviving breast cancer, restoring quality of life is an important issue. Belgium lacks systematic and scientifically founded knowledge concerning the way quality of life (QOL) and return to work (RTW) can be restored. This 3-year study aims to set up and evaluate the occupational therapy (OT) support on RTW as a tool to influence QOL of breast cancer survivors. Using desk research and case-study, information about breast cancer, re-employment and QOL was gathered and OT instruments were selected. During the therapeutic process, the OT worked with the patient on making choices, and realising the steps necessary – following the procedures involved – to reach the aim of the project: return to work.A qualitative questionnaire was used before and after OT implementation, aiming to examine possibilities for successful re-employment. Success of the occupational therapy program was measured by perceived QOL using scientifically validated instruments including the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC-QCQ-C301), Worker Role Inventory (WRI), Integration von Menschen mit Behinderungen in die Arbeitswelt (IMBA) and questionnaires developed within the research project. It can be concluded that information found in the literature corresponds to the findings and experience of participants in this project. QOL of breast cancer survivors can benefit from OT support regarding RTW as developed in this project.
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