Factors influencing work ability and return-to-work in individuals affected by post-COVID: a systematic review.

BACKGROUND

Post-COVID is associated with prolonged impairments in work ability and return-to-work (RTW). The heterogeneity and complexity of post-COVID symptoms present major obstacles to a sustainable RTW. This systematic review aims to identify facilitators and obstacles affecting work ability and RTW.

METHODS

Eligible studies examined factors affecting work ability or RTW in post-COVID patients. Systematic search of literature was performed up to March 2025 using MEDLINE, CENTRAL, PsycINFO, Scopus, and Web of Science. Study selection followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-analysis Statement. Risk of bias was evaluated with the "Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Tools".

RESULTS

31 studies published between 2021 and 2025 were included in the analysis. Most originated from Europe and North America with sample sizes reaching from small qualitative studies to large registry-based cohort studies. The identified factors (N = 59; facilitators: n = 25, obstacles: n = 34) could be grouped into four domains: Disease-related factors associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection (n = 8), Individual biopsychosocial factors (n = 35), Contextual workplace factors (n = 10), Healthcare system and service-related factors (n = 6). The most frequently reported obstacles were fatigue and neurocognitive impairments, stigmatization, lack of managerial support, and rigid RTW policies. Adequate workplace adjustments, interprofessional therapeutic interventions, and self-management strategies facilitate work ability and RTW.

CONCLUSIONS

Work ability and RTW with post-COVID is determined by complex multilevel interactions of biopsychosocial, workplace-related, and systemic factors. Findings suggest that coordinated care and workplace adaptations may help to bridge the gap between medical recovery and occupational participation. Future research should aim to better understand how multiple factors interact in individual cases to develop targeted, evidence-based interventions and policy frameworks.

PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER: CRD420251010826.