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Disclosing a Diagnosis in the Workplace: Perspective of People With Multiple Sclerosis

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  17 February 2021

Laura Gill  and
Sinéad M. Hynes Open the ORCID record for Sinéad M. Hynes [Opens in a new window]
Laura Gill
Affiliation:
School of Health Sciences, National University of Ireland Galway
Sinéad M. Hynes*
Affiliation:
School of Health Sciences, National University of Ireland Galway
*
Address for correspondence: Dr Sinéad Hynes, E-mail: sinead.hynes@nuigalway.ie
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Abstract

Background:

Early withdrawal from the workforce is associated with a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis (MS), with employment retention rates also lower than in the general population. Despite legal requirements, equality in the workplace for people with MS has not been achieved. Disclosure of multiple sclerosis at work is essential for the implementation of accommodations enabling employment retention.

Method:

An interpretive descriptive study explored participants’ decision to disclose or not disclose their diagnosis of multiple sclerosis and the implications this had on work participation and working relationships. Semistructured interviews were used to collect data from 6 participants.

Results:

Three themes were identified, using a reflective approach to analysis, from the data: (a) Accommodations; (b) Workplace Relationships; and (c) Balancing Work and Home Life. Participants had mixed experiences of disclosing their diagnosis. Findings supported the implementation of workplace accommodations including physical, cognitive, and structural supports. Concealment of MS was associated with fear of workplace stigmatisation.

Conclusion:

Disclosure is multidimensional and subjective. It is based on personal, systematic, and social factors. This study was limited by the small number of participants and not including stakeholders in the creation of the topic guide. The results are important for those involved in supporting people with multiple sclerosis to remain in the workplace.

Keywords

multiple sclerosisdisclosurediagnosisqualitative researchIreland
Type
Article
Information
International Journal of Disability Management , Volume 15 , 2020 , e8
Copyright
© The Author(s), 2021. Published by Cambridge University Press

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Footnotes

Social media: Twitter handle @OTNUIGalway and @sineadnieidhin

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