In Spain and Malta, the inclusion of people suffering from chronic diseases in the labor market has been considered. 

This has been expressed by the Platform of Patients’ Organizations (POP) and the Malta Health Network (MNH), two organizations that represent patients with chronic diseases, among many other ailments. 

The main objective of the organizations is to raise awareness to those suffering from chronic diseases who wish to be included in the labor market Due to the fact that, under the current conditions, it is particularly complicated for them to join a system that often thinks twice before including them. 

The commitment of POP and MNH is not only aimed at labor inclusion, but also at social inclusion so that there is no social stigma for those individuals who suffer from a chronic disease. To this end, they have developed a guide, “Managing of people with chronic illness in the work environment”,to make companies aware of their proposal and the needs of people suffering from a chronic illness, for the inclusion of people with chronic illnesses in the workplace. 

A tangible reality 

In Europe alone, one in three people in the 16-64 age range suffers from a chronic disease. In larger numbers, people suffering from a chronic disease represent a high population density that wishes to join the labor market. 

Unemployment, job instability, and direct rejection because of their condition affect people suffering from a chronic disease by making them feel less productive for society or directly by generating a deep emotional impact. 

Health in the work environment

Companies that implement the WHO’s recommendations for the promotion of healthy work environments, which focus on promoting the well-being and safety of their workers, are capable of giving themselves the opportunity to initiate the inclusion of people suffering from chronic diseases. As well as for employees to feel in comfortable environments and for productivity to be maintained in a sustainable way. 

Economy also benefits, as access to safe and secure jobs ensures that social welfare programs remain better regulated and efficient. 

Photo: All rights reserved. Source: Commitment to the full inclusion of chronically ill people in the labor market