On regional differences in sick leave: the role of work, individual and health characteristics and socio-cultural environment.

OBJECTIVES Regional differences in sick leave frequency and duration determinants were studied between different professions (sale and cleaning) in different regions in the Netherlands (Utrecht and South Limburg) and the influence of socio-cultural factors on those determinants was explored. MATERIALS AND METHODS Employees in Utrecht and South Limburg were interviewed on work, individual and health characteristics. Sick leave data were obtained from the social fund. RESULTS A statistic comparison of sick leave frequency and duration figures between the two professions in the two regions showed that for a part similar, and for another part different determinants were associated with sick leave. CONCLUSION In Utrecht, socio-cultural influence was assumed for the perception of autonomy and in South Limburg for health complaints. As a consequence, nationwide interventions to reduce sick leave should take into account the potential effects of sociocultural factors on the type of sick leave determinants that predict sick leave per region.