Socio-Demographic Predictors of Work Disability After Occupational Injuries

ObjectiveThis study aimed at developing a predictive model based on socio-demographic information usually obtained during an initial interview with an injured worker, which could be used to predict the duration of work disability and identify those workers that require special attention.MethodsA retrospective analysis of workers who sustained musculoskeletal occupational injury during the calendar years 2001 to 2003, handled by three major workers' compensation insurers, was conducted. A total of 3,987 cases were retrieved from the insurer's databases. After case-wise deletion, 2,460 cases were finally selected. The potential influence of six typical socio-demographic data on the development of chronic work disability was analysed.ResultsOf these socio-demographic variables, gender alone did not achieve a statistical significance. However, fracture, upper limb injury, age from 40 to 59, high physical work demands, and periodical payment received at HK$15,000 to less than HK$20,000 were found to be significant predictors.ConclusionThis study provided updated evidence of socio-demographic factors associated with the likelihood of developing work disability of injured workers. The results of this study can serve as an initial screening in occupational rehabilitation.