Family Medical Leave as a Resilience Resource for Family Caregivers

Abstract

Case managers mobilize family networks to care for patients. Family medical leave can be a resource for case managers who seek to enhance resilience among family caregivers. The Family Medical Leave Act, passed in 1993, was the first U.S. policy to regulate employee leaves from work for family care purposes (29 CFR 825.102). This policy offers family caregivers increased flexibility and equality. Current and emerging policies also can reduce financial strain. The discussion examines how case managers can integrate family medical leave into best-practice models to support patients and family caregivers.

The Challenge of Quality Cancer Care for Family Caregivers

“…The hours of care and contribution to the health care system provided by family has gone unnoticed. 2,5,[44][45][46] There is a need to measure the outcomes and performance on patient care by the caregiver. Improved patient outcomes from caregiver care include reduced complications due to early identification of problems, management of side effects, increased adherence to oral (oncolytics) medication, and early detection of adverse events, which would result in reduced health care utilization and costs.…”

Chapter 12<BR> Resilience and Family Caregiving

“…In another policy recommendation, Swanke and Zeman (2009) recommend care managers identify family medical leave as a resilience resource, providing family caregivers with increased fl exibility and equality that enhances decision making, access to providers, and the ability to manage crises. Finally, caregiver research would benefi t from strategic partnerships among practitioners, researchers, and policy makers that creates ongoing dialogues between evidence-based practice and practice-based evidence.…”