A structured framework for assessment of rehabilitation and sick-listing (STARS) – experiences among healthcare professionals

Background/purpose The sick-listing process is often perceived uncertain and unclear by both patients and staff. To improve the process, a framework for structured assessment of rehabilitation and sick-listing (STARS) has been developed in the South-Eastern Healthcare Region in Sweden. STARS consists of seven methodological tools supporting healthcare professionals in sick-listing and rehabilitation. The purpose of this study was to investigate how primary healthcare staff clinically involved in the sick leave process experience working according to STARS.Method We used a qualitative design conducting focus group discussions (n = 7) with healthcare staff (n = 37). Eligible participants were physicians, rehabilitation coordinators and other healthcare professionals working clinically with patients. The focus group conversations were analyzed with thematic content analysis according to Braun and Clarke. The study was registered in clinicaltrials.gov (number NCT05655962).Result The participants’ experience of working according to STARS were described by the overarching theme ‘STARS as an enabling structure’ formed by three themes and eight subthemes. The themes were ‘Clearer roles and responsibilities through the RECO function’, ‘Moving from individual work to teamwork’ and ‘A more active and personalized rehabilitation and sick-listing process’.Conclusion The findings suggest that implementing the STARS framework may provide a supportive structure for a uniform and consistent way of working across primary healthcare centers. By clarifying RECOs’ roles and strengthening interprofessional collaboration, the framework may support a more patient-centered approach across services.