ABSTRACT

Objective : This study examines the general characteristics and health-related aspects of quality of life among patients with occupational injuries and illnesses and ordinary medical patients who have received occupational therapeutic services using SF-36. The purpose is to figure out the quality of life for the two groups, and identify the factors that affect their quality of life.Methods : To survey the general characteristics and quality of life among patients with occupational injuries and illnesses and ordinary medical patients, the study requested an investigation from the occupational therapy division at three hospitals under the Workers Accident Medical Corporation and four general hospitals located in the Seoul, Incheon and Seosan areas. A total of 121 patients with occupational injuries and illnesses and 74 ordinary medical patients were selected, each of whom had no congenital deformity, had career experience, and had a cognitive capability to comprehend the survey items and provide appropriate answers.Results : The SF-36 scores showed that the quality of life among patients with occupational injuries and illnesses was significantly lower than ordinary medical patients. Among 8 categories of SF-36, the difference in quality of life was prominent in physical function and mental health categories. In terms of the general characteristics of the patients, patients with occupational injuries and illnesses indicated age and possibility of returning to work as factors that affected their quality of life. Ordinary medical patients responded that duration of treatment affected their quality of life.Conclusion : In general, patients with occupational injuries and illnesses were less happy about their quality of life compared to ordinary medical patients. They were more optimistic if they had the possibility to return to work. Therapists will be able to provide a more effective occupational therapy service if, at the time of the initial evaluation of a patient, they take into account the patient's perceived quality of life, former occupation, and expectation about returning to work.