Occupational Health Barriers in South Africa: A Call for Ubuntu.

Many low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) grapple with shortages of health workers, a crucial component of robust health systems. The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the imperative for appropriate staffing of health systems and the occupational health (OH) threats to health workers. Issues related to accessibility, coverage, and utilization of OH services in public sector health facilities within LMICs were particularly accentuated during the pandemic. This paper draws on the observations and experiences of researchers engaged in an international collaboration to consider how the South African concept of Ubuntu provides a promising way to understand and address the challenges encountered in establishing and sustaining OH services in public sector health facilities. Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, the collaborators actively participated in implementing and studying OH and infection prevention and control measures for health workers in South Africa and internationally as part of the World Health Organizations' Collaborating Centres for Occupational Health. The study identified obstacles in establishing, providing, maintaining and sustaining such measures during the pandemic. These challenges were attributed to lack of leadership/stewardship, inadequate use of intelligence systems for decision-making, ineffective health and safety committees, inactive trade unions, and the strain on occupational health professionals who were incapacitated and overworked. These shortcomings are, in part, linked to the absence of the Ubuntu philosophy in implementation and sustenance of OH services in LMICs.

Association between workplace health promotion service utilisation and depressive symptoms among workers: a nationwide survey.

OBJECTIVES: Workplace-related factors are associated with the risk of depression. Despite implementation of workplace health promotion (WHP) programmes in China to promote the physical and mental well-being of workers, the relationship between WHP and depression has received limited attention. This study investigated the association between WHP service utilisation and depressive symptoms among workers. STUDY DESIGN: This was a cross-sectional survey. METHODS: A researcher-designed questionnaire was used to collect information on socio-demographic and occupational characteristics, WHP service utilisation, and mental health status. The Lasso method was used for variable selection to achieve dimension reduction, and logistic regression was used to assess the association between WHP service utilisation and depressive symptoms. RESULTS: The analysis included 11,710 workers, of whom 17.0% had depressive symptoms. Lasso regression resulted in 6 of 18 WHP services showing significant negative associations with depressive symptoms, including occupational safety training, mental health services, health check-ups, sports activities, fitness rooms, and healthy canteens. The logistic regression results showed that, after adjusting for sociodemographic and occupational factors, utilisation of these six services was associated with a decreased likelihood of depressive symptoms. The adjusted odds ratio (aOR) was 0.84 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.73-0.96) for occupational safety training, aOR: 0.82 (95% CI: 0.68-0.99) for mental health services, aOR: 0.80 (95% CI: 0.71-0.90) for health check-ups, aOR: 0.68 (95% CI: 0.57-0.80) for sports activities, aOR: 0.59 (95% CI: 0.47-0.74) for fitness rooms and aOR: 0.72 (95% CI: 0.59-0.87) for healthy canteens. CONCLUSIONS: Utilisation of WHP services was associated with a lower prevalence of depressive symptoms. Implementation of WHP services and the provision of a supportive workplace environment should be prioritised to benefit the mental health of workers.

Demandas e recursos para predição da síndrome de burnout em psicólogos clínicos / Demands and resources for burnout syndrome on clinical psychologists / Demandas y recursos para la predicción del síndrome de burnout en psicólogos clínicos

O modelo de demandas e recursos foi utilizado para identificar o poder preditivo do estilo pessoal do terapeuta e do trabalho emocional (demandas), e da inteligência emocional e autoeficácia profissional (recursos) sobre as dimensões da síndrome de Burnout (SB), em uma amostra de 240 psicólogos clínicos brasileiros. Os dados foram coletados por meio de plataforma online, tendo como instrumentos de pesquisa um Questionário de dados sociodemográficos e laborais, o Cuestionario para la Evaluación del Síndrome de Quemarse por el Trabajo, o Cuestionario del Estilo Personal del Terapeut, o Questionário de Avaliação Relacionado a Demandas Emocionais e Dissonância da Regra da Emoção, Medida de Inteligência Emocional, e Escala de Autoeficácia Geral Percebida. Os resultados obtidos revelaram um modelo preditor das dimensões da SB, constituído pelas variáveis dissonância emocional, automotivação, demandas emocionais, instrução, envolvimento e autoeficácia. Ressalta-se a relevância de estratégias voltadas para a prevenção da SB nessa categoria profissional, bem como a necessidade de ações que visem a promoção e o desenvolvimento da inteligência emocional e da autoeficácia como fortalecimento dos recursos emocionais para atuação na prática clínica.(AU)

The Model of Demands - Resources was used to identify the predictive power of therapist's personal style, emotional work (Demands), Emotional intelligence, and professional self-efficacy (Resources) over the Burnout syndrome dimensions in a sample of 240 Brazilian clinical psychologists. The data was collected by an on-line platform using a Labor and social demographic data questionnaire, a work Burnout Syndrome Evaluation questionnaire (CESQT - Cuestionario para la Evaluación del Síndrome de Quemarse por el Trabajo), the short version of the Therapist Personal Style Questionnaire (EPT-C Cuestionario del Estilo Personal del Terapeuta), an Evaluation questionnaire related to emotional demands and emotion rule dissonance, and the Emotional Intelligence Measure (EIM) and Perceived General Self-Efficacy Scale (GPSS) as research instruments. Results showed a predictor model of Burnout syndrome constituted by the variables Emotional dissonance, Self-motivation, Emotional demands, Instruction, Involvement, and Self-efficacy. We emphasize the relevance of strategies to prevent Burnout Syndrome in this professional category and the need for actions to promote and develop emotional intelligence and self-efficacy as a strengthening factor of the emotional resources to work as a clinical psychologist.(AU)

Se utilizó el modelo demandas y recursos para identificar el poder predictivo del estilo personal del terapeuta y del trabajo emocional (demandas), y de la inteligencia emocional y autoeficacia profesional (recursos) sobre las dimensiones del síndrome de Burnout (SB), en una muestra de 240 psicólogos clínicos brasileños. Los datos se recolectaron de una plataforma en línea, utilizando como instrumentos de investigación un cuestionario de datos sociodemográficos y laborales, el Cuestionario para la Evaluación del Síndrome de Quemarse por el Trabajo, el Cuestionario del Estilo Personal del Terapeuta, el Cuestionario de Evaluación Relacionado con Demandas Emocionales y Disonancia de la Regla de la Emoción, la Medida de Inteligencia Emocional y Escala de Autoeficacia General Percibida. Los resultados obtenidos revelaron un modelo predictor de las dimensiones de SB, constituido por las variables disonancia emocional, automotivación, exigencias emocionales, instrucción, implicación y autoeficacia. Se destaca la relevancia de las estrategias dirigidas a la prevención del SB en esta categoría profesional, así como la necesidad de acciones dirigidas a promover y desarrollar la inteligencia emocional y la autoeficacia como fortalecimiento de los recursos emocionales para trabajar en la práctica clínica.(AU)

Development and maturation of the occupational health services research field in the United States over the past 25 years: Challenges and opportunities for the future.

Work is an important social determinant of health; unfortunately, work-related injuries remain prevalent, can have devastating impact on worker health, and can impose heavy economic burdens on workers and society. Occupational health services research (OHSR) underpins occupational health services policy and practice, focusing on health determinants, health services, healthcare delivery, and health systems affecting workers. The field of OHSR has undergone tremendous expansion in both definition and scope over the past 25 years. In this commentary, focusing on the US, we document the historical development and evolution of OHSR as a research field, describe current doctoral-level OHSR training, and discuss challenges and opportunities for the OHSR field. We also propose an updated definition for the OHSR field: Research and evaluation related to the determinants of worker health and well-being; to occupational injury and illness prevention and surveillance; to healthcare, health programs, and health policy affecting workers; and to the organization, access, quality, outcomes, and costs of occupational health services and related health systems. Researchers trained in OHSR are essential contributors to improvements in healthcare, health systems, and policy and programs to improve worker health and productivity, as well as equity and justice in job and employment conditions. We look forward to the continued growth of OHSR as a field and to the expansion of OHSR academic training opportunities.

Saúde do Trabalhador: qual o papel do fonoaudiólogo? / Occupational Health: what is the role of the speech therapist? / Salud Laboral: ¿cuál es el papel del logopeda?

Introdução: A fonoaudiologia teve inserção na Saúde do trabalhador principalmente por práticas de cuidados relacionados a audição e voz. Para a oferta de um cuidado mais aderente às necessidades dos trabalhadores, é necessário que as práticas fonoaudiológicas se ampliem nesse campo, propondo ações de promoção em saúde e cuidados em distúrbios da comunicação relacionados ao trabalho, visando a atenção integral à saúde dos trabalhadores e, assim, desapegando-se das ações essencialmente assistenciais e reabilitadoras. Objetivo: O presente estudo se propõe a compreender a formação do Fonoaudiólogo em Saúde do Trabalhador. Método: Trata-se de um estudo quantitativo, aplicou-se questionário eletrônico aos Fonoaudiólogos que atuam em Centros de Referência em Saúde do Trabalhador (CERESTs) buscando descrever o perfil desses profissionais, sua relação com o trabalho e as práticas realizadas. Resultados: Foram alcançados 33 fonoaudiólogos que atuam em Centros de Referência em Saúde do Trabalhador (CERESTs) do país em 14 estados brasileiros. O estudo verificou um grupo de profissionais majoritariamente feminino, porém heterogêneo quanto ao ano de formação, faixa etária, ano de entrada no CEREST e tempo de serviço. Verificou-se que as cargas horárias semanais variam de seis a 44 horas e, ainda, que as fonoaudiólogas realizam além das ações de núcleo específicas, atividades coletivas internas, externas, intersetoriais e ações de vigilância. Conclusão: Foi possível caracterizar o perfil das fonoaudiólogas que atuam nos CERESTs, além de levantar as ações e atividades realizadas, contribuindo para o entendimento do atual estado da Saúde do Trabalhador na Fonoaudiologia e para a proposição de ampliação da atuação na área. (AU)

Introduction: Speech therapy has been inserted in Worker's Health mainly through care practices related to hearing and voice. It is necessary for speech therapy practices to expand in this field, proposing health promotion actions and care for work-related communication disorders, aiming at comprehensive care for workers' health, and thus detaching from essentially care and rehabilitative actions. Objective: The present study proposes to understand the formation of the Speech-Language Pathologist in Occupational Health. Method: This is a quantitative study, an electronic questionnaire was applied to Speech-Language Pathologists who work in Occupational Health Reference Centers (CERESTs) seeking to describe the profile of these professionals, their relationship with work and the practices performed. Results: The study reached 33 speech therapists working in Workers' Health Reference Centers (CERESTs) from 14 Brazilian states. The study found a group of mostly female professionals, but heterogeneous as to year of graduation, age, year of entry in CEREST and years of service, it was identified that the weekly workloads vary from six to 44 hours and also that speech therapists perform specific nucleus actions, but also internal and external collective activities, intersectional and vigilance actions. Conclusion: It was possible to characterize the profile of speech therapists who work in CERESTs, and also to identify the actions and activities performed, contributing to the understanding of the current state of Occupational Health in Speech Therapy and to the proposition of expanding work in the area. (AU)

Introducción: La logopedia se ha insertado en la Salud del Trabajador principalmente a través de prácticas asistenciales relacionadas con la audición y la voz. Es necesario que las prácticas fonoaudiológicas se expandan en este campo, proponiendo acciones de promoción de la salud y atención a los trastornos de la comunicación relacionados con el trabajo, visando la atención integral a la salud de los trabajadores, y despegándose así de acciones esencialmente asistenciales y rehabilitadoras. Objetivo: El presente estudio se propone comprender la formación del Fonoaudiólogo en Salud Ocupacional. Método: Se trata de un estudio cuantitativo, se aplicó un cuestionario electrónico a los fonoaudiólogos que actúan en los Centros de Referencia en Salud del Trabajo (CERESTs) buscando describir el perfil de estos profesionales, su relación con el trabajo y las prácticas realizadas. Resultados: Llegamos a 33 logopedas que trabajan en los Centros de Referencia de Salud de los Trabajadores (CEREST) de 14 estados brasileños. El estudio encontró un grupo de profesionales mayoritariamente femenino, pero heterogéneo en cuanto al año de graduación, la edad, el año de incorporación al CEREST y la antigüedad, las cargas de trabajo semanales que varían de seis a 44 horas y también que los logopedas realizan, además de las acciones básicas específicas, actividades colectivas internas y externas, acciones intersectoriales y de vigilancia. Conclusión: Fue posible caracterizar el perfil de las fonoaudiólogas que acuden a los CEREST, además de levantar las acciones y actividades realizadas contribuyendo así a la comprensión del estado actual de la Salud del Trabajador en la Fonoaudiología y a la propuesta de ampliación de la enseñanza en el área. (AU)

A global review of implementation of occupational safety and health management systems for the period 1970-2020.

Objectives. Global awareness on occupational safety and health management systems (OSHMSs) has increased exponentially with time over the years. Evidence in the public domain shows there is still much skepticism and reluctance in implementing OSHMSs, particularly in least developed and developing countries. The primary objective of this theoretical review was to analyze available evidence of research gaps on OSHMS implementation globally over the period 1970-2020. Methods. The review adopted a descriptive mixed-methods design premised on its ability to provide a platform for data triangulation that is paramount in enhancing the authenticity of the review findings. Results. Many studies conducted on implementation of OSHMSs were bereft of examining the challenges of OSHMS implementation. The review further exposed some OSHMS implementation disparities existing between the developed and the developing world, hence a conclusion can be drawn that a 'one size fits all approach' to OSHMS implementation may not ideal for many workplaces. Conclusion. This review recommends contextualization of OSHMS implementation taking into consideration other differing environmental factors. Ultimately, propagation of further research will exude the challenges associated with implementation of OSHMSs and their causal factors, thereby providing the basis for establishment of problem-driven solutions to increase uptake of OSHMS in workplaces.

Important collaborative conditions for successful economic outcomes of work disability management: A mixed methods multiple case study.

BACKGROUND: Work disability management (WDM) interventions have usually focused on a single factor and its impact on outcomes such as employee health or work disability costs. Research on company-level WDM activities and their economic impact is scarce. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to explain the change in company-level work disability costs and their relation to WDM practices, and to identify the mechanisms of impact through which the successful economic outcome emerged. METHODS: The study design was a convergent mixed methods design with a multiple case study. The data from 14 business units concerned business context, personnel, investments in and processes of WDM, and the costs of work disability in 2010-2013. The data were constructed into case descriptions which were analysed using qualitative comparative analysis. The economic analysis was carried out from the employers' perspective. RESULTS: Five business units gained net benefits of approximately 1.5-2.5% of the payroll sum from their investments in WDM. These benefits were characterised by a combination of four strategic processes: i) dismantling barriers to co-operation, ii) improving the visibility of the strategic goals of work ability management in everyday practice, iii) WDM actions targeting the company's main work disability risks, and iv) the facilitation of multi-actor co-operation through co-ordination and flow of information. CONCLUSION: Strategic processes to support the effectiveness of WDM were found. When aiming for economic success in work disability management, in addition to measuring and managing disability costs, it is also essential to maintain collaborative operations in everyday practice.

Hospital Occupational Health Service Network and Reporting Systems in Taiwan From 2008 to 2021.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the provision of occupational health services at hospitals following the establishment of the Network of Occupational Disease and Injury Service in 2007. METHODS: A review of occupational health services during 2008 to 2021 was conducted. The medical practice-based reporting system was compared with the database of compensated occupational diseases (ODs) from Taiwan's Labor Insurance. RESULTS: First-time outpatient visits for occupational evaluation and total visits to Network of Occupational Disease and Injury Service health care institutions increased from 1777 and 9435 to 12,092 and 23,210, respectively. Reported ODs increased from 1626 to 2043 with a peak of 2791. Up to 1380 workers evaluated for work resumption in 2021. Similar to the increasing trend in reported ODs, the number of compensated ODs increased over years. CONCLUSION: The health service needs of Taiwanese workers from OD evaluation to vocational rehabilitation are increasing.

[Analysis on the allocation equality in occupational health technology service resource in Gansu Province].

Objective: To investigate and analyze the allocation equality of occupational health technology service resource of Gansu disease control and prevention institutions, providing reference basis for optimizing the allocation of occupational health technology service resources. Methods: Combined with the survey data in September 2021, Gansu Province was divided into five economic regions by geographical location and economic characteristics. Taking the service number of enterprises and workers as the analysis dimensions, the allocation level of occupational health technology service resources in different regions was compared. The allocation equality was analyzed through Lorentz curve, Gini coefficient and Theil index. Results: There were 301 occupational health technicians and 1914 sampling and testing equipments of Gansu Provincial disease control and prevention institutions in 2021. All of the technicians and equipments were used for serving 1952 enterprises and 465800 workers. The curvature of Lorentz curves and Gini coefficient which measured by the service number of enterprises and workers were: occupational health technicians>radioactive factor sampling and testing equipment >physical factor sampling and testing equipment >chemical factor sampling and testing equipment, and chemical factor sampling and testing equipment>physical factor sampling and testing equipment >radioactive factor sampling and testing equipment >occupational health technicians, respectively. Theil index of occupational health technology service resources suggested that differences in regions were the main unfair reason effected the allocation of occupational health technicians and radioactive factor sampling and testing equipment, while the differences between regions were the main unfair reason effected the allocation of chemical and physical factor sampling and testing equipment. Conclusion: The allocation equality in occupational health technology service resources of Gansu Provincial disease control and prevention institutions was not enough, and the differences in regions and between regions should be considered. This study suggests that it is necessary to introduce more occupational health technicians. The allocation of occupational health technology service resources should match with the number of local enterprises and the types of potential hazard factors of enterprises as far as possible.

A saúde do trabalhador offshore: uma análise sanitarista sobre a realidade das negociações coletivas do trabalho em alto-mar / The health of the offshore worker: a sanitarian analysis of the reality of collective negotiations on the high seas

Considerando como tema central a saúde do trabalhador, o objetivo do presente estudo foi analisar a realidade das negociações coletivas do trabalho em alto-mar, avaliando como hipótese a fragilidade no controle do poder público sobre o processo produtivo como limite da efetividade de uma realidade em prol da saúde e segurança dos trabalhadores e trabalhadoras desse setor. Para isso, foram pontuados os seguintes objetivos específicos: a) apresentar distintas concepções e valorações do trabalho humano através das perspectivas sanitarista, ocupacional e previdenciária; b) apontar como a saúde do trabalhador offshore se organiza e vem sendo estruturada; c) elencar quais são os principais atores, práticas, possibilidades e obstáculos na consolidação do controle público na garantia de direitos do trabalhador offshore; d) pautar limites e possibilidades contidos nas negociações (acordos e convenções) no âmbito de acidentes e adoecimentos decorrentes da relação laboral da categoria; e e) analisar aspectos do acidente ocorrido no dia 11 de fevereiro de 2015 na unidade estacionária de produção, armazenamento e transferência de óleo e exportação de gás da empresa BW Offshore denominada Cidade de São Mateus (FPSO CDSM), que na ocasião era afretada pela Petrobras. Assim sendo, o leitor poderá observar detalhes a respeito do mercado de petróleo e gás, tais como sua importância no contexto econômico nacional, a inserção massiva da terceirização nas relações de trabalho e prestação de serviços dessa cadeia produtiva, além das representações sindicais desse universo laborativo em específico. Será possível, ainda, compreender as diferentes concepções de saúde do trabalhador, que revelam as abordagens e os interesses diversos no campo teórico-prático quando o assunto é a saúde e a segurança no ambiente laborativo, além de se familiarizar com aspectos garantidores ou vulnerabilizantes de direitos frente às negociações coletivas entre os representantes sindicais dos trabalhadores offshore da empresa BW Offshore. Por fim, será possível observar uma análise e tentativa de compreensão mais ampla do acidente supracitado, sob a ótica do déficit de controle público sobre os processos produtivos empresariais e, por consequência, da manutenção da inobservância do Estado em mediar essas relações. (AU)

Considering workers' health as a central theme, the objective of this study was to analyze the reality of collective negotiations on the high seas work, considering as a hypothesis the fragility in the control of the public power over the productive process as a limit of the effectiveness of a reality in favor of the health and safety of workers in this sector. For this, the following specific objectives were scored: a) To present different conceptions and valuations of human work through the sanitarian, occupational and social security perspectives; b) To point out how the health of the offshore worker is organized and has been structured; c) List the main actors, practices, possibilities and obstacles in consolidating public control in guaranteeing the rights of offshore workers; d) To guide limits and possibilities contained in the negotiations (agreements and conventions) in the context of accidents and illnesses resulting from the employment relationship of the category; e) Analyzing aspects of the accident that occurred on February 11, 2015, at the stationary production, storage, and oil and gas export unit of the company BW Offshore, known as Cidade de São Mateus (FPSO CDSM), which was chartered by Petrobras. Thus, the reader will be able to observe details about the oil and gas market, such as its importance in the national economic context, the massive insertion of outsourcing in labor relations and provision of services to this production chain, in addition to the union representations of this specific labor universe. It will be possible to understand the different conceptions of workers' health, which reveal the diverse interests and approaches in the theoretical and practical field regarding health and safety in the workplace. Additionally, the reader will be able to become acquainted with aspects that guarantee or undermine rights vulnerable during collective negotiations between the union representatives of offshore workers at BW Offshore. It will be also possible to observe an analysis and attempt at a broader understanding of the aforementioned accident, understood from the perspective of the deficit of public control over the business production processes, and consequently the maintenance of the State's non-observance in mediating these relations. (AU)

[Directions of organizational and economic changes in occupational health services as a response to the COVID-19 pandemic - challenges to the health crises]. / Kierunki organizacyjno-ekonomicznych zmian ochrony zdrowia nad osobami pracujacymi jako odpowiedz na pandemie COVID-19 ­ wyzwania wobec kryzysów zdrowotnych.

The COVID-19 pandemic caused not only short-term organizational and economic changes in the functioning of occupational health services, but also enforced to include them in the formulation of a strategic systemic approach to this link of the health care system. The aim of the article is to identify and describe the organizational and economic changes in occupational health services during the pandemic. On this basis, the directions of further research on the improvement of the activities of health care entities of working people in response to future health crises have been formulated. The review covered legal acts relating to organizational and economic changes, Polish and foreign expert publications, full-text Polish and English-language scientific articles included in the PubMed database, publications beyond the specified period, consistent and useful in explaining the concepts of organization, management and economics. The changes in occupational health services presented in the literature during the pandemic consisted of: introducing additional organizational forms of providing health care to employees including occupational medicine leaders, strengthening supervision over working conditions, interdisciplinary cooperation for managing the health of working people, participation in pro-vaccination campaigns, activities in the field of rehabilitation after COVID-19 and new-quality cooperation with public and private health stakeholders. As the result of the review, problems were formulated for future research, which included ensuring the security of occupational medicine entities in terms of resource availability, adjusting the allocation of resources to new financial needs during and after a pandemic, evaluation of organizational and economic changes introduced during the pandemic and the legitimacy of their maintenance in subsequent periods, the development of economic and organizational instruments for the time of crisis, the scope and principles of cooperation with health care stakeholders and the introduction of medical technologies based on a medical and economic assessment according to Health Technology Assessment. Med Pr. 2022;73(6):471-83.

Supporting Occupational Health and Safety Risk Assessment Skills: A Case Study of Five Companies.

Financial burden due to poor occupational safety practices remains high although occupational health and safety (OHS) have improved in recent years. Conducting risk assessment is one way to improve OHS. Workplaces may not have sufficient expertise in risk assessment. The aim of this study was to identify the needed OHS risk assessment skills, current support in the workplaces and the ways to improve risk assessment skills. This study was conducted with the Delphi survey for OHS experts (n = 13) and with interviews (n = 41) in the case companies. OHS experts agreed that the most significant skills were for employees to identify hazards and minimize risks in one's work; for supervisors to influence others with a good example; and for OHS experts to understand and manage the wholeness of safety practices and understand and manage the meaning, concepts, and criteria of risk assessment. The current main support methods were learning at work, training and written instructions. However, many of the interviewees felt that they had not received risk assessment training and that the support depended on their activity. Finally, the OHS experts determined that the most feasible ways to improve risk assessment skills were training, coaching and giving clear instructions. Likewise, the interviewees suggested various training methods. Based on these results, concrete development plans to improve risk assessment skills can be made.

Adaptation and psychometric evaluation of the Swedish version of the Assessment of Inter professional Team Collaboration Scale (AITCS-S) for use in occupational health services.

Interprofessional team collaboration (ITC) in the Swedish Occupational Health Service is an important part of the service given to the customer. The Occupational Health Service (OHS) could be more competitive if they were able to show how successful is their ITC. The Assessment of Interprofessional Team Collaboration Scale (AITCS) is an instrument that measures ITC in teams working with the client as part of the team. The aim of this study was to adapt the Swedish version of the instrument for use in OHS and to evaluate the psychometric properties of the adapted version and the adapted short version. The study included 472 participants from different OHSs, all members of the trade association of occupational health care in Sweden. Face and content validity of the instrument were assessed, and floor and ceiling effects were measured. Internal consistency was measured with Cronbach's alpha and an exploratory factor analysis was conducted on the 42-item adapted instrument and the short, 24-item version. The exploratory factor analysis gave a three-factor solution with an eigenvalue >1 and explaining a total variance of 57.1% and 62.3% for the short version. The study concludes that AITCS-S-(OHS) as well as the short version, is a reliable and valid questionnaire. Further development of the AITCS-S-(OHS) needs to be undertaken and assessed by confirmatory factor analysis.

Exploring ergonomists' experiences after participation in a theoretical and practical research project on observational risk assessment tools.

Objective. The aim of this qualitative study was to explore how ergonomists experienced an e-learning concept as a tool for knowledge translation; furthermore, to explore what, if any, impact the knowledge translation had regarding the ergonomists' work with risk assessments. Methods. Twelve Swedish ergonomists employed in the occupational health service (OHS) participated in a research project, which included an e-learning program in risk assessment training. Focus group interviews and individual interviews were used for data collection. Results. The ergonomists appreciated the e-learning concept, e.g., its flexibility enabled them to decide when and where to practice. The concept was considered feasible within the context of the OHS. The ergonomists experienced an increased knowledge of different observation-based risk assessment tools, which expanded their professional toolboxes. Additionally, they began to reflect more regarding the reliability of risk assessment tools and how to enhance quality in risk assessment assignments. Conclusion. This study showed that e-learning may comprise an efficient knowledge translation for improved risk assessments in the OHS. The program contributed to changes in ergonomists' risk assessment procedures, e.g., in the selection of tools, increasing the number of observers, employing a participatory approach and more often actively involving stakeholders during the risk assessment process.

A Context Analysis with Stakeholders' Views for Future Implementation of Interventions to Prevent Health Problems Among Employees with a Lower Socioeconomic Position.

Purpose Health problems among employees with a lower socioeconomic position (SEP) often result from an interplay of problems on multiple life domains. Contextual factors greatly affect implementation of interventions that aim to solve these type of problems. The aim of this study was to gain insight into the organizational and socio-political context for implementation of preventive interventions that consider multiple life domains among employees with a lower SEP. Methods In total 16 semi-structured interviews were conducted with stakeholders at organizational level, occupational health service (OHS) level, and at socio-political macro level. Thematic analysis was performed to identify themes that describe the perceptions of stakeholders about the impact of contextual factors on implementation. Results The following themes were identified: (1) the importance of addressing problems on multiple life domains among employees with a lower SEP, (2) unclarity of responsibilities for solving problems on multiple life domains, (3) necessity of better collaboration between occupational and curative healthcare, (4) insufficient investments in prevention by employers, (5) difficulties in early identification of employees at risk for health problems, and (6) risk of conflicting role for supervisors in addressing problems on multiple life domains. Conclusions Implementation of preventive interventions considering multiple life domains among lower SEP employees is challenging, due to various contextual factors. To improve the feasibility, many different stakeholders both in- and outside occupational health practice need to be involved, collaborate, and need to be convinced of the added value to prevent problems on multiple life domains among employees with a lower SEP.

Espaço multipics: a utilização das práticas integrativas e complementares como estratégia de cuidado na atenção à saúde do trabalhador / Multipics Space: the use of integrative and complementary practices as a strategy of care in the care of workers' health / Espacio multipics: el uso de prácticas integradoras y complementarias como estrategia de atención en el cuidado de la salud de los trabajadores

Introdução:As Práticas Integrativas e Complementares em Saúde foram regulamentadas no Sistema Único de Saúde,através da portaria nº 971/2006 que aprova a implantação da Política Nacional de Práticas Integrativas e Complementares, com o objetivo de garantir cuidado continuado,humanizado e integral em saúde,com ênfase na atenção primária. Objetivo:Relatar a experiência vivenciada por uma equipe de Residentes Multiprofissionais em Saúde, através do espaço de Práticas Integrativas e Complementares de uma Unidade Hospitalar na região do Seridó, Rio Grande do Norte. Metodologia:Trata-se de um estudo descritivo com abordagem quantitativa e qualitativa do tipo relato de experiência,desenvolvido a partir da vivência de uma equipe de Residentes em Atenção Básica da Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, atuantes no município de Caicó, em parceria com o Hospital Regional do Seridó. As ações foram realizadas durante os meses de março e abril de 2021. As práticas desenvolvidas foram ventosaterapia, musicoterapia, arteterapia, meditação guiada e aromaterapia. Após as práticas foi aplicado um questionário semi-estruturado, sobre seu conhecimento sobre tais práticas exercidas, nível de satisfação e uma descrição subjetiva da experiência e estado atual pós-prática. Resultados:Participaram das ações propostas 57 profissionais, dentre eles (84,21%) mulheres e (15,79%) homens, de vários setores da unidade hospitalar. 10,53% relataram desconhecer as práticas de um modo geral e 89,47% relataram não conhecer as práticas que foram ofertadas. De acordo com a pesquisa de satisfação, 98,25% dos profissionais relataram sentir-se "muito satisfeitos" e "satisfeitos", enquanto somente 1,75% consideraram as práticas "neutras". Os profissionais referiram, também, sensação de harmonia, bem-estar e de paz interior. Conclusões:Por meio da atuação foi possível ofertar um momento de relaxamento no ambiente de trabalho. Obteve-se após a prática um feedback positivo dos participantes sobre os resultados dessa atuação acerca do seu bem-estar (AU).

Introduction:Integrative and Complementary Health Practices were regulated in the Unified Health System, through Ordinance No. 971/2006 that approves the implementation of the National Policy of Integrative and Complementary Practices, with the objective of ensuring continued, humanized and comprehensive health care, with emphasis on primary care. Objective:To report the experience experienced by a team of Multiprofessional Health Residents, through the space of Integrative and Complementary Practices in a Hospital Unit in the Seridó region, Rio Grande do Norte. Methodology:This is a descriptive study with a quantitative and qualitative approach to the type of experience report,developed from the experience of a team of Residents in Primary Care of Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, working in the municipality of Caicó in partnership with the Regional Hospital of Seridó. The actions were carried out during the months of March and April 2021. The practices developed were suction cup therapy, music therapy, art therapy, guided meditation and aromatherapy. After the practices, a semi-structured questionnaire was applied about their knowledge about the practices, level of satisfaction and a subjective description of the experience and current state after practice. Results:57 professionals participated in the proposed actions, including (84.21%) women and (15.79%) men, from various sectors of the hospital unit. 10.53% reported not knowing the practices in general and 89.47% reported not knowing the practices that were offered. According to the satisfaction survey, 98.25% of the professionals reported feeling "very satisfied" and "satisfied", while only 1.75% considered the practices "neutral". The professionals also mentioned a sense of harmony, well-being and inner peace. Conclusions:Through the performance it was possible to offer a moment of relaxation in the work environment. After the practice, positive feedback from the participants on the results of this performance about their well-being was obtained after practice.

Introducción:Las Prácticas de Salud Integradoras y Complementarias fueron reguladas en el Sistema Único de Salud, con el objetivo de garantizar una atención de salud continúa, humanizada e integral, con énfasis en la atención primaria. Objetivo: Relatar la experiencia experimentada por un equipo de Residentes de Salud Multiprofesional, a través del espacio Prácticas Integradoras y Complementarias en una Unidad Hospitalaria en la región del Seridó, Rio Grande do Norte. Metodología: Estudio descriptivo, cuantitativo y cualitativo,desarrollado a partir de la experiencia de un equipo de Residentes en Atención Primaria de la Universidad Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, trabajando en el Hospital Regional de Seridó. Las actuaciones se llevaron a cabo durante los meses de marzo y abril de 2021 a través del espacio. Las prácticas desarrolladas fueron terapia de ventosas, musicoterapia, arteterapia, meditación guiada y aromaterapia. Después de las prácticas, se aplicó un cuestionario semiestructurado sobre sus conocimientos sobre las praticas, el nivel de satisfacción y una descripción subjetiva de la experiencia y el estado actual después de la práctica. Resultados: 57 profesionales participaron en las acciones propuestas, entre ellas (84,21%) mujeres y (15,79%) hombres, de diversos sectores de la unidad hospitalaria. 10,53% reportaron no conocer las prácticas en general y 89,47% reportaron no conocer las prácticas que se ofrecieron. Según la encuesta de satisfacción, 98,25% de los profesionales dijeron sentirse "muy satisfechos" y "satisfechos", mientras que sólo 1,75% consideraron las prácticas "neutras". Los profesionales también mencionaron una sensación de armonía, bienestar y paz interior. Conclusiones:A través de la actuación fue posible ofrecer un momento de relajación en el ambiente de trabajo. Después de la práctica, se obtuvo retroalimentación positiva de los participantes sobre los resultados de este desempeño sobre su bienestar después de la práctica (AU).

Innovative Wellness Models to Support Advancement and Retention Among Women Physicians.

Despite improvements in representation of women in academic medicine, the rate of promotion and career advancement remains unequal. Compared with their male colleagues, women report lower rates of personal-organizational value alignment and higher rates of burnout. Particular challenges further exist for Black women, Indigenous women, women of color, and third gender or gender nonbinary faculty. Promoting the well-being of women physicians requires innovative approaches beyond the traditional scope of physician well-being efforts and careful attention to the unique barriers women face. Three wellness-oriented models are presented to promote the professional fulfillment and well-being of women physicians: (1) redefine productivity and create innovative work models, (2) promote equity through workplace redesign and burnout reduction, and (3) promote, measure, and improve diversity, equity, and inclusion. By engaging in innovative models for equitable advancement and retention, it is anticipated that diverse groups of women faculty will be better represented at higher levels of leadership and thus contribute to the creation of more equitable work climates, fostering well-being for women physicians.

Sociodemographic characteristics and disability pensions of frequent attenders in occupational health primary care - a follow-up study in Finland.

BACKGROUND: Work disability is a complex issue that requires preventive efforts from healthcare systems and individuals, and that too often results in disability pensions (DP). While many studies have attempted to characterize risk factors of work disability, many showing for example a link between socioeconomic positions, working conditions and frequent attendance to OH primary care it is not known if frequent attendance is associated with DP despite the sociodemographic factors. This study aims to address this gap and examine the association between frequent attendance to OH primary care and DP, when adjusted by sociodemographic factors. METHODS: This study combines routine medical record data of an occupational health service provider with comprehensive national registers. Medical record data were used to define groups of frequent attenders to OH primary care (FA) (1-year-FA, 2-year-FA, persistent-FA and non-FA) from 2014 to 2016. The sociodemographic factors (including i.e. educational level, occupational class, unemployment periods) were derived from Statistic Finland and DP decisions were derived from Finnish Centre for Pensions. Association of frequent attendance to OH primary care with DP decisions were analyzed and adjusted by sociodemographic factors. RESULTS: In total, 66,381 patients were included. Basic and intermediate education along with manual and lower non-manual work predicted frequent attendance to OH primary care. Unemployment in 2013 did not predict frequent attendance to OH primary care. Frequent attendance to OH primary care was associated with DP within next two years, even when adjusted for sociodemographic factors. The association of frequent attendance to OH primary care with DP grew stronger as high service use persisted over time. CONCLUSIONS: Frequent attendance to OH primary care is associated with DP risk in the near future despite the underlying sociodemographic differences. Patients using OH primary care services extensively should be identified and rehabilitative needs and measures necessary to continue in the work force should be explored. Sociodemographic issues that co-exist should be explored and considered when planning interventions.