Thyroid conditions, ranging from common issues like hypothyroidism to more serious ailments such as thyroid cancer, can greatly influence an individual's work life. Affecting millions of individuals worldwide, including 20 million Americans,1 thyroid disorders such as hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism often remain undiagnosed. These disorders may present with a variety of symptoms, including eye strain, brain fog, mood swings, temperature sensitivities, and digestive issues that can affect daily functioning and productivity. Employers and health plan sponsors play a crucial role in supporting employees as they navigate these challenges, offering an environment that is both empathetic and accommodating.
Practical strategies for supporting employees
- Flexible work arrangements: Adjusting work hours or offering remote work options can help employees manage symptoms such as fatigue and provide the flexibility needed for medical appointments or treatments. Ensuring that employees can take the necessary breaks for medication and doctor visits is critical to managing their health needs effectively.
- Workspace ergonomics: To reduce eye strain, which is a common symptom, employers should consider optimizing lighting in the workplace. Encouraging the use of desk lamps that mimic natural light and promoting regular breaks, such as the 20-20-20 rule (every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds), can significantly alleviate eye discomfort.
- Open communication and education: Encourage a culture where employees feel comfortable discussing their thyroid condition with management. This can help identify individual accommodation needs, such as temperature control in the workspace or access to ergonomic equipment like adjustable chairs and keyboard trays.
Simple steps for whole health in the workplace
By proactively accommodating employees with thyroid conditions, employers can enhance both personal and organizational success. Simple adjustments like flexible work schedules, ergonomic improvements, and supportive policies for medical necessities can make substantial differences in employee well-being. Access to expert pharmacy care is also important, ensuring that affected individuals can use available resources to best manage their health. Understanding and addressing these needs fosters an inclusive environment, ultimately helping your organization sustain an engaged and healthier workforce.
FDA Update:
New medications for thyroid conditions
Access to effective treatments is vital for managing thyroid disorders. Notably, 2024 saw the approval of two new medications,2 broadening therapeutic options:
Retevmo™ (selpercatinib): This treatment is for pediatric and adult patients with advanced or metastatic medullary thyroid cancer with a RET mutation and thyroid cancer with RET gene fusions, offering an essential option for those requiring systemic therapy when other treatments are inadequate.
Yorvipath® (palopegteriparatide): A parathyroid hormone analog designed for adults with hypoparathyroidism, especially significant after Natpara® becomes unavailable post-2024. It provides a sought-after alternative for disease management.
1. American Thyroid Association: General Information/Press Room
2. CarelonRx: Q3 2024 CarelonRx DrugInsights Update
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