Rehab Continuum Report 2003-05-01

Cardiac rehab programs face task of attracting women for treatment

The studies continue to pile up that show women arent participating in cardiac rehab nearly as much as men. Maybe its because heart disease is still considered a mans problem, even though its actually the No. 1 killer of women. Maybe its because women heart patients tend to be older and sicker than men. Maybe its because not as many women are referred to cardiac rehab or not as many stick with it.

Tips to get more women into your cardiac rehab program

Women less likely to go to rehab without support

Women are busy working, washing, cooking, and cleaning. They take care of everyone around them before they take care of themselves. They have strong needs for social support. And they frequently have no idea they are at risk for heart disease.

Hospital staffing affected by initial troop call-ups

During Operation Desert Storm in 1991, the massive call-up of local troops and National Guard units in the Tacoma, WA, area created huge problems for Multicare Health System. We lost people all the way up to the level of vice presidents, recalls Todd Kelley, a spokesman for the three-hospital system. Even then, though, when there was a palpable shortage in some areas, we were able to fill in the gaps. And fortunately, it didnt turn into a long-term situation. Everyone was back inside six months, and some even sooner.

Performance testing may be better safety indicator

Testing for substance abuse through traditional methods like urinalysis or saliva analysis may be a given in many businesses and industries today, but the practice is not without its flaws. In fact, say some observers, there are much better methods available to help ensure safety and optimal performance.

The big picture counts in mental health, too

Employee Assistance Programs and similar services are available in many organizations to help employees with mental health issues, but not nearly enough attention is paid to mental health on the organizational level, says Jeffrey P. Kahn, president of New York City-based WorkPsych Associates. And just as mental health issues can affect the productivity of an individual, they can also affect the overall productivity and performance of an organization.

Retention: The pound of cure for recruiters

If the cost of replacing a typical employee is up to twice the annual salary of that worker, why dont organizations spend more time and resources trying to retain their employees? Its a question that Beverly Kaye, EdD, CEO and founder of CareerSystems International in Sherman Oaks, CA, thinks about often. If you walked into your office and found a computer stolen, you would rant and rave, she says. But if a $100,000-a-year employee walks out your door, you dont blink an eye.

OSHA alerts work sites with high injury rates

The Washington, DC-based Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is alerting 14,200 employers across the country that their injury and illness rates are higher than average and encouraging them to take steps to reduce hazards and protect their workers. The 14,200 sites are listed alphabetically by state on OSHAs web site at: www.osha.gov. html. However, the list does not designate those earmarked for programmed inspections.

Rehab Continuum Report Archives – May 1, 2003

May 1, 2003