Factors associated with return to work among disability claimants with depression

Background: Depression is a significant contributor to the burden of disease globally and is often associated with reduced work productivity and permanent disability. Objectives: This study aimed to identify factors associated with return to work among disability claimants with depression at one insurer in South Africa. Method: A retrospective cohort study was conducted with 514 disability claims. Univariate tests for association (Chi-square and Fisher) were performed to test the significance of the association between the primary outcome (disability benefit terminated as a result of return to work) and demographic and workplace factors. Results: The majority of disability claimants were women (71.6%). Women and claimants under the age of 60 years at the time of benefit termination had a high probability of returning to work, 80% and 99% respectively. Of the 39% of claimants who had a high level of workplace support during the disability process, 95% also returned to work. Nearly half (48%) of the disability claimants returned to work in less than 6 months, while most of those with a duration of disability longer than 24 months did not return to work (79%). Conclusion: Female gender, lower age (under 60 years), high workplace support and shorter duration of disability were all positively associated with return to work for disability claimants with depression. Contribution: This study provides insights into factors associated with successful return to work for disability claimants with depression, which can guide case management and rehabilitation for this population.