Work life and personal health are often seen as two conflicting arenas, especially for those battling chronic illnesses such as cancer. However, a recent study conducted by Ikuharu Morioka and colleagues from the Wakayama Occupational Health Support Center has shed light on the efforts of varied-sized businesses in Wakayama Prefecture, Japan, to support cancer-afflicted employees in balancing their work schedules with their treatment regimens.
The study, published in Sangyo Eiseigaku Zasshi, the Journal of Occupational Health, highlights the disparity in support measures provided by businesses based on their size and provides a glimpse into possible improvements for workplace policies regarding cancer-stricken employees.
Methodology
The study involved a mail-based questionnaire survey distributed to 770 randomly selected businesses in Wakayama Prefecture, among which 188 companies responded, marking a 24.4% response rate. The survey inquired about available workplace support systems, the status of employees undergoing cancer treatment, as well as policies in place for reinstatement post-treatment.
Key Findings
The survey revealed that only about 20% of these businesses had a dedicated support system for employees who were working while receiving cancer treatments. Small-sized businesses, those with fewer than 50 employees, reported a more proactive stance on consultation for cancer screening with 55% carrying out or recommending it, which is higher than medium and large-sized companies.
In terms of sick leave systems for regular employees, 51% of small-sized businesses had provisions in place, while large businesses significantly exceeded that percentage. Moreover, over 80% of businesses stated that reinstatement of employment post-cancer treatment was possible, contingent most frequently on medical certification of fitness to work from the employee’s physician. Small-sized businesses also considered the willingness of colleagues to accept the returning employee as a factor in reinstatement.
Responses to the Study
The reaction to the report has sparked a conversation among business leaders, human resource professionals, health care providers, and workers’ rights advocates about the need for a cohesive approach to aiding employees with cancer.
Small vs. Large Businesses
It is important to note that the study indicates larger businesses seem to have more formalized structures for aiding employees with cancer, reflecting possibly the resources and human resource policies, which can differ markedly with the scale of business operations.
Recommendations for Workplace Improvements
The study proposes several measures that workplaces can take to better support their employees with cancer. Notable among these are the implementation of cancer screening programs, providing the option of annual paid leave by the hour, and institutionalizing systems of paid sick leave for regular employees.
Implications for Occupational Health
The findings underscore the role that occupational health services can play in bridging the gap between cancer treatment and workplace demands. With over 80% of businesses allowing reinstatement but only 20% having support systems for ongoing treatment, there is a clear need for more comprehensive programs.
Moving Forward
It is critical to recognize the psychosocial aspects of returning to work for cancer patients. Apart from medical fitness, the acceptance by colleagues and the assurance of a supportive work environment are pivotal in the smooth transition back to work.
Reference Information
The article DOI and references are as follows:
DOI: 10.1539/sangyoeisei.2018-036-E
References
1. Morioka, I., Terashita, H., Miyashita, K., Ikuta, Z., Takeshita, T., & Taoda, K. (2019). [Supporting a balance between work schedules and treatment regimens among cancer patients: A questionnaire survey focusing on company size in Wakayama Prefecture, Japan]. Sangyo Eiseigaku Zasshi, 61(5), 159-169.
2. Cancer and Work: Understanding the Issues Facing Employers and Employees. (2018). Journal of Occupational Rehabilitation.
3. Employment and cancer: A review of the literature. (2016). Work & Stress.
4. The Role of Employers’ Beliefs and Attitudes in Return to Work following Cancer: A Systematic Review. (2017). Psycho-Oncology.
5. Developing an Employer’s Toolkit to Support Employees Returning to Work After Cancer. (2017). Occupational Medicine & Health Affairs.
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Conclusion
Businesses, regardless of their size, play a crucial role in determining the well-being of employees grappling with cancer. Steps taken by workplaces in Wakayama Prefecture, Japan, can serve as an informative model for other regions and countries. Further research and policy-making should aim at creating a standardized support system that is both compassionate and practical and which bridges the existing gap between health struggles and career continuity.