Tanja Hassert
Doctoral Projects
People are not always able to return to their previous jobs after undergoing medical rehabilitation. Due to permanent health limitations, the rehabilitation clinic may recommend follow-up vocational rehabilitation; through so-called “benefits for participation in working life,” the German Pension Insurance is intended to support those affected as they navigate the upcoming career transition.
However, this transition from medical to vocational rehabilitation can be a challenge for many individuals. In addition to uncertainty about their career prospects, fears about financial security often play a role. Supportive measures could help, but in reality, they are either insufficient or not accessible to everyone.
The goal of this doctoral dissertation is therefore to focus on the interface between medical and vocational rehabilitation. The study will examine what obstacles may arise during this phase, what expectations the participants in this process have of the other party, to what extent these expectations are already being met, and what additional support is needed. Based on the findings, design requirements for an interactive, digital aftercare solution will be developed to support those affected during the transition phase. These findings will be made available to users digitally in a pilot study. This will be followed by an evaluation of the extent to which an interactive digital solution has the potential to facilitate the transition from medical to vocational rehabilitation.
The doctoral project is based at TU Dortmund University and is being conducted in cooperation with the Königstuhl Rehabilitation Clinic in Heidelberg.