Workplace productivity losses due to multimorbidity: findings from an Australian longitudinal population survey, 2009–21

Background While productivity loss has been studied in various populations, the impact of multimorbidity on workplace productivity at a population level remains understudied. This study estimates the productivity losses attributable to multimorbidity. Method Using data from four waves of the Household, Income and Labour Dynamics in Australia (HILDA) survey, we investigated the relationship between multimorbidity and productivity loss. Negative binomial and logistic regression models were employed to analyze absenteeism, presenteeism, and working hour tension as measures of productivity loss. Results We found a significant association between multimorbidity and increased absenteeism, presenteeism and working hour tension. After controlling for socio-economic, demographic, health, and workplace-related factors, individuals with multimorbidity had a 1.07-fold higher rate of absenteeism (incidence rate ratios: 1.07; 95% CI: 1.02–1.13) compared to those without serious illness. Their odds of experiencing presenteeism were three times higher, and the incidence of working hour tension was 32% higher. On average, the annual cost of absenteeism was AU$265.20 higher for individuals with multimorbidity than for those without serious illness. Conclusion Our results underscore the need for evidence-based workplace policies to support the productivity and well-being of employees living with multimorbidity.