Heart failure and work: how to get back to work
Heart failure (cardiac insufficiency ) is a life-changing diagnosis. Especially if you have coronary heart disease (CHD) or have had a heart attack (myocardial infarction), you may not be able to work for some time. The question then quickly arises as to whether you will ever be able to work again and, if so, in what form. We provide tips on how you can successfully return to work and lead as normal and active a life as possible.
First things first: it is possible to return to work and be physically active even if you have heart failure. If you have been prescribed a recovery phase by your doctor, for example after a heart attack, it makes sense to prepare for your return to work during this time. A member of the cardiac rehab team may visit you in hospital with information about your condition or the procedure you're having. After you leave hospital, they may visit you at home or call you to check on your progress.
You do not need a referral from your cardiologist. You can also contact your local cardiac team – you can call the British Heart Foundation's Heart Helpline on 0808 802 1234 for help finding your nearest cardiac rehab programme contact your GP surgery to find out how to register for cardiac rehab.
Who assesses my ability to work?
The ability to work is assessed by the treating doctors and insurance company assessors. The main assessment factors here are the severity of the heart failure and your personal resilience. Both are checked by your cardiologist and compared with the demands that your job will place on you on a daily basis. Depending on the results of the examination, a decision will be made as to whether and when you can be reintegrated into your job.
How does reintegration work?
To ensure that you are not put under too much strain right from the start, reintegration takes place as part of a gradual plan based on the doctor's assessment. The aim is to ensure that you continue to recover and can gradually increase your work capacity. For example, you could work two hours a day in the first week and then increase the number of hours you work each week by one or two hours - until you are back to your full number of hours. In both the UK and Ireland, when you are sick and unable to work, you may be entitled to some form of sick pay. This can come in the form of Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) in the UK and statutory sick leave in Ireland. Additionally, some employers offer their own sick pay schemes (occupational sick pay) which may be more generous than the statutory minimum.
Phased returning to work
A gradual return to work, also known as a phased return, is a common practice in the UK and Ireland to help employees recover from illness or injury and ease back into full-time work. This approach involves gradually increasing work hours, duties, or responsibilities over a period of time, allowing employees to adjust to the demands of their job at a pace that is comfortable and supports their recovery.
What happens if I am no longer allowed to practise my profession?
Sometimes it is no longer possible for patients with heart disease to return to their old job after rehab, for example because the heart can no longer pump sufficiently during physical exertion. Age and the overall situation can also play a role. Your doctor may then advise you to take on a new, less strenuous job or to change jobs. If your work is very physically demanding, you may find it difficult to continue with a heart condition. The first thing you should do is discuss with your HR team and your line manager whether you can switch to a role that involves less physically strenuous work.
The Equality Act states that if you are disabled your employer must make ‘reasonable adjustments’ to allow you to return to work, for example adjusting working hours or providing helpful equipment. This may be the case if your heart condition is severe. The Equality and Human Rights Commission offers general information on the Equality Act and the responsibilities employers have.
Why going back to work is worthwhile.
If you’ve been off work for a while because of heart disease, going back can feel like a big step. It’s normal to feel unsure or even a bit anxious. But the good news is that many people with long-term heart conditions are able to return to work—and doing so can actually help your recovery.
Going back to work can:
- Boost your confidence and give you a sense of purpose
- Improve your mental and physical health
- Help you stay active and connected with others
- You might not return to the exact same job or schedule right away. Some people ease back in gradually or make changes to their role. What matters most is finding a balance that works for your health and lifestyle.
Talk to your doctor and your employer about the best way to return to work safely and comfortably. With the right support, work can be a positive part of your recovery journey.