PURPOSE: To evaluate effects on somatic and mental health of a multicomponent inpatient occupational rehabilitation program compared to a less comprehensive outpatient program in individuals on sick leave for musculoskeletal complaints or mental health disorders. METHODS: A randomized clinical trial with parallel groups. Participants were individuals on sick-leave for 2 to 12 months with a sick-leave diagnosis within the musculoskeletal, psychological or general and unspecified chapters of ICPC-2. Potential participants were identified in the Social Security System Registry. The multicomponent inpatient program (4 plus 4 days) consisted of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, physical training and work-related problem-solving including creating a return to work plan and a workplace visit if considered relevant. The comparative outpatient program consisted primarily of ACT (6 sessions during 6 weeks). Self-reported health-related quality of life, subjective health complaints, pain and anxiety and depression symptoms were assessed up to 12 months after the program. RESULTS: 168 individuals were randomized to the multicomponent inpatient program (n = 92) or the outpatient program (n = 76). Linear mixed models showed no statistically significant differences between the programs, except for slightly more reduced pain after the outpatient program. CONCLUSIONS: This study presents no support that a 4 plus 4 days multicomponent inpatient rehabilitation program is superior to a less comprehensive outpatient program, in improving health outcomes.

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