Publication:

Retrospective analysis of disability evaluation and work fitness reports issued in occupational therapy training school and centre, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India

Background Patients from medicine, neurology and neurosurgery are referred to occupational therapy for disability calculation and if applicable work fitness. The patients who were referred from other units are not analysed here. Objectives of this study were to find the total number of patients referred for disability evaluation and certification from neuro-medicine and neuro-surgery units. To find the number of patients referred according to the different diagnosis. To find the patient distribution according to the percentage of disability. To find number of patients who were given work fitness (unfit, fit, light duty).

Methods Retrospective analysis of hospital records, disability evaluation reports and work fitness reports (wherever applicable from 1st January 2018 to 31st December 2019). Evaluation of disability is done as per guidelines of Government Gazette, June 2001 and report is given. Final certification is given by the respective referring unit. If applicable these patients are also analysed for work fitness.

Results Among 84 patients were given disability certificate in 2018 whereas 79 patients in 2019. In 2018, out of 84 patients, 1 received disability 70%. In 2019, out of 79 patients, 2 got disability 70%. In 2018, out of 84 patients, 33 patients were referred for work fitness in which 27 got unfit, 1 patient was given fit and 5 got light duty after work simulation. In 2019, out of 79 patients, 21 were referred for work fitness in which 18 were given unfit, 1 patient was given fit and 2 got light duty after work simulation.

Conclusions The patients were analysed based on age, gender, type of diseases, percentage of disability, type of work and work fitness (fit, unfit, light duty).