Socioeconomic Status and Sickness Absence in Hospital Employees
Author Information
Author(s): Kristensen Trine R, Jensen Signe M, Kreiner Svend, Mikkelsen Sigurd
Primary Institution: Copenhagen University Hospital
Hypothesis
How do differences in sickness absence among occupational groups depend on socioeconomic status and other factors?
Conclusion
Sickness absence increases with lower socioeconomic status, particularly for medium-length and 'abnormal' absence patterns.
Supporting Evidence
- Sickness absence increased with decreasing socioeconomic status.
- The social gradient was strong for medium spells and 'abnormal' absence.
- General health explained some of the social gradient in sickness absence.
- Work factors and personal factors did not significantly explain the differences.
Takeaway
People who earn less tend to take more sick days, especially for longer absences, and this isn't just because of their health.
Methodology
A 1-year prospective cohort study analyzing sickness absence among hospital employees using questionnaires and administrative data.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to self-reported health and absence data.
Limitations
The study is limited to a single hospital, which may affect generalizability, and lacks detailed medical reasons for absences.
Participant Demographics
Mean age 44 years; 84% women; various occupational groups including doctors, nurses, and cleaners.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.0001
Confidence Interval
95% CI 2.8-6.2 for medium spells in cleaners compared to doctors
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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