Kennie and everyone-
Occupational health is a speciality in both medicine and nursing. Those of
us who have specialist training (diploma/degree/Masters) have encountered a
body of knowledge
which others will not , in the relationship in work and health- how work may
affect health and how a persons pre-existing health problems may impact on
and be accommodated at work.
Relying on an RGN (who is not under the direct supervision an OH qualified
practitioner) makes about as much sense as expecting the same RGN to be
practising safely and competently in the speciality of cancer or children's
health or any other speciality. RGN training is a basis on which to expand
knowledge. If you rely on unsupervised RGN to make such decisions you may
get some wrong (and costly)decisions.
I would make the same assertion in using a "medical practitioner" without an
OH qualification. As a very minimum a GP with OH diploma and that only for
the most straightforward of cases.
Am I preaching to the converted? Sorry..
Best wishes,
Diane
----- Original Message -----
From: "Kennie Adeoye" <[log in to unmask]>
To: <[log in to unmask]>
Sent: Wednesday, July 09, 2003 5:15 PM
Subject: Re: Pre-employment questionnaires
> We do not have an OH dept, we at the moment using an independent medical
advisor, but I do believe HR can open all PEQ and make referrals where
necessary (possibly under the guidance of a medical practitioner)and where
in doubt they refer.
> Is it necessary to refer all PEQ? Scenario: With a past medical history
of a fracture and is seeking to work as an adm. support staff, do they
require a sound judgment on their fitness for that post?. Is the advise here
to refer everyone who complete the PEQ? I will appreciate some advice.
>
> We have two Registered nurses and although they are not Occ.health
qualified, the main issues here is are they competent to make that decision.
>
> Kennie
>
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