Subjective Aspects of Return to Work and Social Reintegration in Patients with Extensive Work-related Problems in Cardiac Rehabilitation - Results of a Qualitative Investigation

Objective This study investigated subjective biopsychosocial effects of coronary heart disease (CHD), coping strategies and social support in patients undergoing cardiac rehabilitation (CR) and having extensive work-related problems. Methods A qualitative investigation was performed in 17 patients (48.9 +/- 7.0 y, 13 male) with extensive work-related problems (SIMBO-C > 30). All patients were interviewed with structured surveys. Data analysis was performed using a software that is based on the content analysis approach of Mayring. Results In regard to effects of disease, patients indicated social aspects including occupational aspects (62 %) more often than physical or mental factors (9 or 29 %). Applied coping strategies and support services are mainly focused on physical impairments (70 or 45 %). Conclusions The development of appropriate coping strategies was insufficient although social effects of disease were subjectively meaningful for patients in CR.