Randomised studies that compared return to work co-ordination to usual care in adults where at least 80% were continuously off work (full/part time sick leave or on disability benefit) for at least four weeks and employed at the time of sick listing were eligible for inclusion. Studies had to report return to work or disability status as an outcome. Return to work co-ordination had to involve a direct assessment leading to individually tailored plans implemented by a return to work co-ordinator or team which coordinated services and communication with stakeholders. Employer-initiated return to work co-ordination programmes were excluded.
Patient-reported outcomes were grouped into the categories: overall function, physical function, social function, mental function, general health, pain, depression, anxiety and patient satisfaction. The included participants had an average age range from 39 to 46 years and 22% to 75% were men. Health conditions that caused absence from work included musculoskeletal pain, surgery for lower disc herniation, chronic low back pain, anxiety and depression. Time off work ranged from one to 55 months. Return to work interventions were generally provided by a team of healthcare professionals and/or social workers and psychologists. Control groups received usual care or advice from doctors, nurses or case managers. Intervention durations were between one week and six months; in some studies it was until the participant had returned to work.
Two reviewers independently selected the studies; disagreements were resolved by discussion.