A qualitative study to the needs and conditions for the use of preventive care by self-employed

Background

While those in paid employment are entitled to preventive occupational healthcare, this is not automatically available to self-employed persons (SEP). Previous research indicated that SEPs make limited use of preventive occupational healthcare, mainly because they do not consider it necessary. This study aimed to examine why SEP perceive this healthcare as (un)necessary, and under which conditions they would be willing to utilize such services.

Methods

Semi-structured one-on-one interviews were conducted with 23 SEP from various occupational sectors. The interview guide was based on the model of Fleuren, which distinguishes four levels of factors in the implementation of interventions: characteristics of the intervention, the user, the organization, and the socio-political environment.

Results

Some do not consider preventive health care activities necessary, because they perceive no risks in their (office) work. Conversely, another group believes it is important to engage in such activities, as they consider it important to maintain their health and to prevent problems. The participating SEPs emphasize that preventive activities should be tailored to the specific nature of their work. Most participating SEPs state that they are unwilling to spend money on these activities. In addition, providing information about the possibilities of preventive activities, good experiences from other SEP, a financial incentive, or a networking element can promote the use of preventive activities.

Conclusions

Based on the results, recommendations can be made for the promotion of the utilization of preventive occupational health care by SEPs. To do so, further research is needed to elaborate the conditions and strategies for promoting the utilization of preventive occupational health care by SEPs.

Key messages

• Some do not consider preventive health care activities necessary, because they perceive no risks in their (office) work.

• Providing information, good experiences from other SEP, a financial incentive, or a networking element can promote the use of preventive activities by SEPs.