Evaluation of an occupational rehabilitation program.
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this study was to report the findings of a program evaluation for an occupational rehabilitation program in the Midwest.


METHODS
An ex-post facto chart review was performed on 50 charts using demographic data, results from tests of performance and pain measures, and data from patient satisfaction questionnaires to find evidence of excellence in the program, and to identify areas for improvement.


RESULTS
Over 97% of the participants actually completed the program and 76% returned to work within 3 months after program completion. Ninety-two percent indicated overall satisfaction with the program, and all aspects of the program were rated with a mean score of 4.25 or above on a 1 to 5 Likert scale. Evaluation of perceived pain scales of the participants indicate no discernable relationship between intensity of pain and successful return to work.


CONCLUSIONS
The program showed a high completion rate, a high return to work rate, and high levels of patient satisfaction. Suggestions for improvement include an increase in use of real and simulated work activities, better documentation of pain measures, better programs to address psychosocial issues, lengthening the program, and increased communication with case managers and professionals outside of the work program.
Goodman
Glenn
G
Health Sciences Department, Cleveland State University, Cleveland, OH 44115, USA. g.goodman@csuohio.edu
Browning
Margaret
M
Campbell
Sims
S
Hudak
Huison
H
D000328:Adult; D012090:Cumulative Trauma Disorders / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D010147:Pain Measurement; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D015397:Program Evaluation; D012050:Rehabilitation, Vocational / Q000379:methods*; D014922:Wisconsin