Investigating the impact of presenteeism and COVID-19 on Canadian healthcare workers’ mental health

Dr. Jorgensen received Research for Professional Development funds to study the effects of presenteeism on the mental health of Canadian healthcare workers.

While there is heightened concern about viral transmission when healthcare workers engage in presenteeism (engaging in work while ill), we argue that there may also be long-term consequences on employees’ mental health of when they feel obligated to show up to work when they are not well. To address this issue, we adopt a mixed-methods approach (survey/focus groups) to investigate the influence of COVID-19 on presenteeism, and how engaging in presenteeism during a pandemic may impact Canadian healthcare assistants’ mental health. Findings from the study are expected to be published in a top-tier journal as well as through publicly accessible media outlets.