Objective:to be competent in the assessment and management of a case which has a significant occupational health component.
ATTITUDES:
RECOGNISE AND CONSIDER THE IMPACT OF PHYSICAL AND PSYCHOSOCIAL FACTORS ON BOTH PAID AND UNPAID WORK CAPABILITY.
It is important to be aware of the relationship between health and work. This includes both the possible effects of work on health and the effects of someone’s health on their capacity for work.
This is a complex problem that affects people’s ability to function in and outside work. It is important to understand that the biological factors are only one component in a holistic approach to managing an individual. It is also essential to consider the psychological and social factors.
To clarify this further:
Biological factors :
Consider the physical symptoms of an illness or condition, e.g. in back pain; elicit the pain, duration, severity, associations and relieving factors
Psychological factors:
Consider the health beliefs, thought process and or fears and concerns an individual may have as a result of their condition, e.g. frustrations, anger or anxiety associated with their symptoms.
Social factors:
Consider the implications of a condition and its consequences on family, friends, and co-workers. Consider also their socio economic background, regional deprivation.
Additional Information:
- Concepts of Rehabilitation for the Management of Common Health Complaints [1]. Waddell G Burton. TSO publications
- The Scientific and Conceptual Basis of Incapacity Benefits [2]. Waddell G Aylward M. TSO publications.
- The Health and Work Handbook which is available via the following websites:
Faculty of Occupational Medicine [3]