"Aftermath": Using Research to Understand the Social and Economic Consequences of Workplace Injury and Illness

Abstract

“Aftermath: The Social and Economic Consequences of Workplace Injury and Illness" study is an example of undertaking research to link with policy development. Much evaluation research (for example, assessing the impact of workplace illness and injury) isolates one area or perspective to study: clinical, functional, psychological, or financial outcomes. This study aimed to explore both quantifiable and non-quantifiable costs, and presents social and economic consequences case studies. This allowed the inter-connections between various areas and perspectives to be included, to present an overall picture of the visible as well as hidden costs. Behind the eventual products from this study are some lessons learnt about the research process, and how this contributes to policy development.