Advantages and disadvantages of an objective selection process for early intervention in employees at risk for sickness absence
2007

Objective Selection Process for Employee Intervention

Sample size: 8603 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Saskia FA Duijts, IJmert Kant, Gerard MH Swaen

Primary Institution: Maastricht University

Hypothesis

Objectively selected employees are 'at risk' for sickness absence and eligible to participate in the intervention program.

Conclusion

The study shows that objective selection of employees for early intervention is effective.

Supporting Evidence

  • The overall response rate on the screening instrument was 42.0%.
  • Sickness absence was higher in the 'at risk' group (42%) compared to the 'not at risk' group (25%).
  • 151 eligible employees were included in the trial from an initial pool of 8603.

Takeaway

This study looked at how to choose employees who might get sick and need help. It found that picking them based on facts works better than just asking them if they need help.

Methodology

A randomized controlled trial was conducted with a screening instrument sent to employees to identify those at risk for sickness absence.

Potential Biases

Response bias was found for sex and age parameters.

Limitations

The process was expensive and time-consuming, and there were issues with non-response.

Participant Demographics

Participants included employees from two universities and a health care center in the Netherlands.

Statistical Information

P-Value

0.000

Confidence Interval

1.63–2.89

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1471-2458-7-67

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