Occupational health covers so many wide ranging issues for employees and employers, as well as very specific healthcare needs- every day can be different. At UKIM Occupational Health & Wellbeing, we have a vast team of various clinicians across the UK to tackle different occupational health requirements.
One of our Occupational Health Physicians, Alison Tweedie, shares her day-to-day life on the job...
My working day usually consists of a morning and afternoon clinic. This is often face-to-face but may be on the telephone which can be helpful to reach individuals who struggle to travel.
I check through what is booked into my clinic in advance to make sure I am prepared. For example, I may want to download some resources for a particular assessment or as a handout for individuals to take away.
As part of the assessment, I hold a confidential discussion focussed on health and work. There may also be an indication for clinical examination. I then write a report to the referring manager with consent from the individual. This report includes a summary of health in relation to work as well as recommendations for adjustments or restrictions to support health at work. There may also be instances where an individual is unable to attend work or perform certain aspects of their job due to the severity of their symptoms and functional limitations of their health condition(s). I am mindful of the close relationship between physical and psychological health and the social impact of sickness absence; a wholistic approach is often required to ensure the relevant support is offered.
During the day I work closely with colleagues within the Occupational Health department as well as communicating with Human Resources, Line Managers and Health and Safety. This may include complex case management and visiting areas of the workplace; I'm routinely asked to look at results of health surveillance, so that I can advise on further action such as scheduling a medical assessment or further surveillance.
I enjoy collaborative working, and I am lucky to have such knowledgeable and supportive colleagues.
