Type of Project: Funded project Joint project Study
Interfaces of partial inpatient orthopedic rheumatologic rehabilitation - networking with job rehabilitation and aftercare

Discussion topic: Partial inpatient orthopedic rheumatologic rehabilitation (TSR) offers special opportunities for overcoming interface problems close to home. This includes networking with outpatient aftercare programs (NS) and vocational support measures (BF). In the context of TSR, there have been no studies on the utilization and effects of NS and on the perception of BF measures as well as of an accelerated and intensified BF case management in TSR. Aim and research question: The utilization and effects of NS and BF after orthopedic rheumatologic TSR as well as possible predictive parameters will be investigated. Furthermore, feasibility and first results of intensified BF case management will be analyzed. Rehabilitation economic analyses will be connected. Study design: In prospective cohort studies, frequency and reasons for the use/non-use of NS and BF measures 2-4 years after TSR will be collected from 1,082 rehabilitation patients who were included in an evaluation study of the Hanover Health Center, one of the largest nationwide model projects for day-care orthopedic-rheumatologic rehabilitation, commissioned by the LVA Hanover from 1997 to 1999. Predictive parameters for utilization can be identified from linking the existing data sets with the results of the postal follow-up surveys. In a pilot study, the feasibility and first results of an accelerated and intensified BF case management in TSR will be investigated in about 20-40 of 200 people who are not expected to be able to return to their former workplace. Expected results: Information can be expected that will lead to concrete possible solutions for hindering factors regarding NS and BF. Patient profiles for favorable or unfavorable courses depending on the implementation of NS programs will be established. From this, criteria for targeted assignment to NS can be derived. From analyses of lost production (especially duration of work and disability) before and after NS or BF, the trend in indirect medical costs can be estimated. For cost bearers, this information provides an important basis for decision-making. The evaluation of the model project BF case management in TSR serves to identify and eliminate resistance and fears of the rehabilitants and obstacles in the networking of the institutions involved in the process close to home. Lower Saxony/Bremen Research Association