Introduction:
The role of occupational therapists in supporting the employment of patients with cancer remains unclear. This study aimed to assess the current state of employment support provided by occupational therapists in cancer treatment collaboration-based hospitals in Tokyo, using a questionnaire survey.
Participants and Methods:
The survey was conducted at 60 cancer treatment collaboration-based hospitals in Tokyo. The primary respondents were healthcare professionals engaged in consultation and support services for cancer patients at each hospital. An anonymous web-based survey was used to investigate employment consultations and the extent of collaboration with occupational therapists.
Results:
Among the 62 responses received, 90% have provided employment counseling to patients with cancer. The primary topics of consultation were medical leave (87%), resignation from employment (70%), and returning to work or seeking new employment (87%). Fourteen respondents (23%) indicated previous collaboration with occupational therapists, with the primary expectations of such collaboration being improved muscle strength and physical fitness (53%) and support for managing cancer-related disabilities (73%).
Discussion:
Although social workers are important in providing employment support to patients with cancer, collaboration with occupational therapists remains limited. Expanding opportunities for occupational therapists to participate in employment support initiatives and enhancing communication with nurses and social workers could improve patient outcomes.
Conclusion:
A structured model of employment support that leverages the expertise of occupational therapists should be developed to enhance the reintegration of patients with cancer into the workforce.