Use of preventive work-related care among self-employed workers

Abstract Background Self-employed workers face risks of work-related health problems, sickness absence and work disability, just as contracted employees. Although self-employed persons have theoretically access to occupational health care services including preventive work-related care, they may face barriers to use such in practice. This study aimed to get insight into the use and needs of preventive work-related care of self-employed workers. Methods Online questionnaires were administered to 407 self-employed workers (with 0-4 employees) from 12 sectors, using an existing online panel. Open and closed questions were about the use of preventive work-related care and the barriers and facilitators to make use of it. Results Self-employed workers estimate the risk of getting work-related complaints or work disability to be low (resp 65% and 61%), but if it would happen, about half of the respondents would find it serious (resp 40% and 56%). When looking at the different preventive work-related care activities self-employed workers participate in, a health check is performed most often(29%), followed by a training or workshop regarding health and healthy working (26%) and contact with an occupational physician (207%). Self-employed with a voluntary work disability insurance make more use of preventive activities than self-employed without insurance. Hearing from other self-employed workers about their preventive activities would motivate the use of activities. Barriers for not participating in preventive activities were not seeing the added value, not knowing about the possibilities, or no time. Conclusions Self-employed workers make little use of preventive work-related care. Providing information on preventive activities and social influence from other self-employed can promote and stimulate use. Key messages • Self-employed workers make little use of preventive work-related care, but would find it serious if they get work-related complaints or work disabled. • Access to preventive work-related care for self-employed could be promoted and stimulated by providing information and sharing good practices.