Perceptions of Changes in the Operating Environment and Their Impact on Occupational Health Care Practices: A Qualitative Interview Study

Background: Occupational health services in Finland have undergone changes due to digitalization, remote work, and evolving professional roles, all of which challenge traditional service models and require adaptation from occupational health professionals. In addition, increasing mental health demands have created new expectations of occupational health services. However, the implications of these changes for occupational health care practices are not sufficiently understood. Objectives: To explore how occupational health professionals perceive the impact of changes in the operating environment, such as digitalization, remote work, increasing mental health demands, and evolving professional roles, on occupational health care practices. Design: A qualitative interview study using inductive content analysis. Methods: Data were collected through 8 focus group interviews with 34 occupational health professionals from 8 service providers. The interviews were analyzed using inductive content analysis to identify themes related to changes in services. Results: Six main themes emerged: strengthened client orientation in occupational health service delivery, adaptation of health care practices to multilocation client organizations, technology-driven development of occupational health practices, diversified remote occupational health practices, strengthened mental health support structures, and transformed role of the occupational health physiotherapist in service delivery. Remote services have become routine, improving the accessibility of occupational health services. Multidisciplinary collaboration has shifted to virtual platforms, enabling broader participation. Mental health services have expanded, and occupational health psychologists now play a more active role in both individual and organizational support. The redefined role of occupational health physiotherapists has changed their scope of practice and improved the flexibility of and access to services. Conclusion: Occupational health professionals are responding to environmental changes by reshaping their service practices. The results highlight a shift toward more client-centered, flexible, and collaborative service models, supported by digital tools and evolving professional roles. These adaptations contribute to the development of sustainable and responsive occupational health services.