Return to Work Literature: Counts, Themes, and Gaps

Abstract

Disability management is a systemic process designed to improve the reintegration and return to work outcomes experienced by managers and employees. As a corporate program, disability management outcomes are generally recognized as faster employee returns to work and reduced job accommodation costs. Recognizing that these outcomes are desirable, this study shows that there are gaps in the literature that limit our understanding of how these and other outcomes are produced from a human resource management perspective. The review of literature indicates main areas and gaps of attention in the literature body. Suggestions for further development of the literature are offered.