What To Expect From An Occupational Health Services Provider

Many businesses choose to use an occupational health services provider. This approach has benefits for both employers and employees, and it's a good idea to understand what they are. You can expect these four things from using the occupation health services model. 

Centralization

One of the basic features of occupational health is centralization. If someone is hurt and needs to go to physical therapy, for example, your HR (human resources) department can quickly tell the employee where to go and what to expect. This allows everyone to get care faster. It also tends to make costs more predictable for the employer.

You also will find that the range of occupational health services makes it easier to handle a number of needs. For example, many companies use the same provider to deal with things like drug testing.

Processes

Working with a single provider also has the benefit of streamlining your processes. You can quickly integrate the process of sending someone for occupational health work into your larger system. This makes filing easier because your HR team will know the process and be able to guide employees through it.

Likewise, a solid process will make associated issues easier. If someone needs to file a workers' compensation claim, for example, you'll be able to accelerate the process because you can get them through examinations and into treatment or therapy faster.

Screening

Businesses also frequently use occupation health services screening to address pre-employment concerns. If a company's employees will do a lot of labor, for example, it's a good idea for that firm's intake process to include screening for physical problems. Not only does this protect the company from potential liability, but it can give prospective employees a leg up on trying to mitigate any issues if they join. An occupational health professional might recommend something like a brace to mitigate potential problems while the person works.

Companies can also deal with vaccination needs. If a sales team is traveling to another country to meet with clients, for example, the firm can send them to the occupational health clinic. Doctors can perform blood tests and make sure everyone is vaccinated. Also, they can provide necessary paperwork so people can get through traveler screening processes faster.

Compliance

Many businesses have to comply with medical privacy rules while dealing with their employees' occupational health concerns. A services provider will have processes and resources in place to ensure compliance with standards like HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act).