Absenteeism in healthcare settings: work-related factors and prevention
W. Ayed, M. Mersni, S. Chemingui, Y. Yaich, G. Amri, G. Bahri, M. Bani, M. Bani, R. Ghachem, N. LadhariIntroduction
Absenteeism among healthcare workers (HCWs) is a growing concern worldwide, as it disrupts service delivery, increases workload for remaining staff, and compromises patient care quality. work-related factors play a key role in triggering or aggravating absenteeism
Objectives
To describe the socio-professional characteristics of HCWs on long-term sick leave due to work-related psychiatric disorders.
Methods
Retrospective descriptive study of HCWs who consulted the occupational pathology and fitness for work department, during the period from 17 August 2022 to 14 September 2025, as part of a medical examination for long-term absence.
Results
Of 2404 HCWs who consulted our department for long-term sick leave, work -related factors accounted for 26,7%. The mean age of HCWs was 45,6± 10,4 years . . They were predominantly female, with a sex ratio (M/F) of 0,34. The most occupied work positions were: nurses (27,5%) and workers (16,6%). The average length of long-term sick leave was 60 days. The psychiatric pathologies most commonly reported by healthcare professionals were anxiety and depressive disorders (92%). The occupational factors reported by HCWs were high workload, shift work, workplace conflicts and inadequate organisation.
Conclusions
Absenteeism among HCWs is strongly influenced by work-related factors. Our study highlight the need for targeted preventive measures and organizational interventions to reduce psychiatric morbidity and promote sustainable work capacity in healthcare settings.
Disclosure of Interest
None Declared