Open Access. Powered by Scholars. Published by Universities.®

Digital Commons Network

Open Access. Powered by Scholars. Published by Universities.®

Public Health

West Virginia University

Theses/Dissertations

Work related injuries

Publication Year

Articles 1 - 2 of 2

Full-Text Articles in Entire DC Network

Factors Associated With Service Utilization In Injured Workers In West Virginia, Brandy Brown Jan 2022

Factors Associated With Service Utilization In Injured Workers In West Virginia, Brandy Brown

Graduate Theses, Dissertations, and Problem Reports

Introduction: Minimal research has been conducted on healthcare utilization among injured workers residing in rural areas. These workers are often at high risk for work-related injury due to the industries in which they work and commonly experience barriers to accessing healthcare. The first study in this dissertation series explored general characteristics of injured workers receiving care at occupational medicine clinics in West Virginia (WV). The second and third studies explored the moderating effects of rurality, pain medication, and psychiatric medication on sociodemographic and health status factors and number of medical encounters.

Methods: Each study used a cross-sectional design with data …


An In-Depth Exploration Of Hospital-Based Physical And Occupational Therapists’ Needs, Perceptions And Participation In A Safe Patient Handling And Mobility Program, Kimeran W. Evans Jan 2021

An In-Depth Exploration Of Hospital-Based Physical And Occupational Therapists’ Needs, Perceptions And Participation In A Safe Patient Handling And Mobility Program, Kimeran W. Evans

Graduate Theses, Dissertations, and Problem Reports

Introduction - Patient mobility performed in the hospital setting places healthcare workers at high risk for WMSDs. The healthcare industry has responded through the creation of SPHM programs that are successful in reducing work-related injuries broadly. However, less is known about the distinct experiences of rehabilitation professionals. Therefore, an in depth exploration of the perceptions, participation, and needs pertaining to lift equipment usage among rehabilitation professionals was performed.

Methods – A qualitative case study approach explored this bounded system. Six focus groups were conducted with 25 members of the rehabilitation team and three interviews were conducted with key administrative personnel. …