Effects of Denied and Delayed Medical Treatment on the Injured Workers' Quality of Life
Graduation Date
2004
Document Type
Master's Thesis
Document Form
Degree Name
Master of Science
Department
Nursing
Department or Program Chair
Barbara Ganley, PhD
Abstract
The purpose of this descriptive study was to examine the effects of denied and delayed medical treatment under California workers’ compensation on the injured workers’ quality of life. Twenty-four participants scored a mean of 9.6 (scale 0-30) on Ferrans and Powers Quality of Life Index, with higher scores reflecting higher quality of life. Twenty-five participants scored a mean of 7.5 (scale 0-10) on a visual analogue scale, with 10 reflecting worst possible life. Participants also described their experience in a narrative portion of the study. The sample consisted of primarily white (84%) female (88%), registered nurses (56%), who experienced denied and or delayed medical treatment while their claim was accepted under workers’ compensation. The sample was predominantly professional with an education of 16 years and greater (72%).