Use of disablement resettlement officers by patients with musculoskeletal disorders.
OBJECTIVE
to define the use of disablement resettlement officers (DRO) by patients with locomotor disorders.


METHODS
questionnaire for patients with locomotor disorders potentially handicapping them from obtaining work.


METHODS
outpatient clinics.


METHODS
52 patients, capable of work, aged 55 years or less, with a locomotor disorder; 19 had chronic arthritis and 18 back disorders. QUESTIONNAIRE: obtained details of diagnosis, work status, contact with DRO and results of referral.


RESULTS
21 had seen the DRO and three of these were dissatisfied; 15 were referred to the DRO and only three were placed in employment; 16 did not want referral to the DRO; overall 60% were unemployed.


CONCLUSIONS
Many patients are reluctant to see the DRO. Only a minority either attend or find work on referral. A modified system is needed to improve the employment prospects of patients with locomotor disorders.
Storey
G O
GO
Department of Rheumatology, St Bartholomew's Hospital, London, UK.
Scott
D L
DL
D000328:Adult; D001847:Bone Diseases / Q000534:rehabilitation; D003258:Consumer Behavior; D004185:Disability Evaluation; D004651:Employment; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009135:Muscular Diseases / Q000534:rehabilitation; D012017:Referral and Consultation; D012046:Rehabilitation / Q000592:standards; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D006113:United Kingdom; D000078329:Workforce