Participatory Approach to Create a Supportive Work Environment for Employees With Chronic Conditions: A Pilot Implementation Study.

Objective: To evaluate a pilot implementation of an organizational-level intervention. The participatory approach (PA) was used to create a supportive work environment for employees with chronic conditions, with a key role for occupational physicians (OPs).

Methods: Twenty-eight semi-structured interviews were conducted with OPs and stakeholders within their organizations. Furthermore, observational data and research notes were gathered. Data analysis occurred through content analysis.

Results: Recruitment of organizations was challenging, with a reach of 25%. Dose delivered, dose received, and fidelity differed across the three organizations. Organizations were positive about the PA as a method to improve support for employees with chronic conditions.

Conclusions: The PA could be of added value for creating a supportive work environment. However, research is needed on activating organizations to improve support for employees with chronic conditions.