Perspectives on returning to work of multiple myeloma patients: A qualitative interview study

Christine Bennink, Marjolein van der Klift, Hans Scheurer, Pieter Sonneveld, Saskia F. A. Duijts

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10 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Objective: Multiple myeloma (MM) is a rare and incurable disease. Because new treatments improved survival rates, return to work (RTW) became more relevant to MM patients of working age. Also, (health care) experts may be confronted with specific obstacles in guiding MM patients' RTW. Therefore, we aimed to qualitatively explore perspectives and experiences of MM patients and (health care) experts regarding RTW and participation at work. Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with patients (N = 9) and (health care) experts (N = 15). Interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed using thematic analysis. Results: Four themes resulted from the interviews with patients and (health care) experts: (1) severity of diagnosis and treatment impact RTW, (2) step-by-step reintegration facilitates RTW, (3) meaning of work differs between MM patients and experts and (4) lack of tailored counselling by experts. Conclusion: Although MM patients' work ability may be limited due to the severity of diagnosis and side effects from treatment, most patients consider RTW important. Both patients and (health care) experts emphasise the benefits from early work ability assessment (in the hospital setting) and specialised RTW counselling, especially in those with physically demanding jobs.
Original languageEnglish
Article numbere13481
JournalEuropean journal of cancer care
Volume30
Issue number6
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Nov 2021

Keywords

  • cancer
  • haematological malignancy
  • multiple myeloma
  • rare cancer
  • return to work
  • work disability

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