Work

Occupational Physicians’ Behavioral Determinants Regarding Prevention and the Association With Time Allocated to Preventive Tasks

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: OBJECTIVE: While prevention is key in preventing work-related health problems, it is unclear how much time Dutch occupational physicians (OPs) allocate to preventive tasks. This study aimed to assess OPs' attitudes, social influence, and self-efficacy (ASE) regarding preventive tasks and the association with time allocated to these tasks. METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, questionnaire data on ASE determinants and time allocated to preventive tasks were collected from 227 OPs and analyzed using multivariable linear regression, adjusted for demographic characteristics. RESULTS: OPs spent about 10% of their time on preventive tasks, had a positive attitude but low self-efficacy, and experienced varying social support. Results showed that social support from employers and OPs' self-efficacy were positively associated with time allocated to prevention. For attitude towards prevention and time allocated to preventive tasks, no association was found. CONCLUSIONS: Efforts should be made to increase social support and improve self-efficacy for Dutch OPs, for example by developing educational programs for both OPs and employers.

Source: Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine

DOI: 10.1097/jom.0000000000003422

Authors: Suzanne Orhan Pees, Sandra van Oostrom, Frederieke Schaafsma, Karin Proper

Institutions: National Institute for Public Health and the Environment, Amsterdam University Medical Centers

Language: English

Topic: Occupational Health and Safety in Workplaces

Subfield: Occupational Therapy

Field: Health Professions

Domain: Health Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Decent work and economic growth

Open Access status: hybrid

Funder: Ministerie van Sociale Zaken en Werkgelegenheid