In the United States, hospital systems have shifted from earlier COVID-19 vaccine mandates toward a voluntary approach. Many hospitals initially required staff vaccination in 2021-2022, bolstered by federal rules at the time. However, with the end of the Public Health Emergency and withdrawal of the federal Centers for Medicare &
Scenario: You’re treating a worker injured on the job. Clinically, you believe they need temporary work restrictions to heal safely (e.g. no heavy lifting for a week). However, the employer – a valued client – urges you to write “Full Duty” in the medical record, despite your recommended restrictions. Why?
Health fairs are more than a feel-good initiative — they’re a strategic tool for expanding your occupational health practice. Whether you’re launching a new employer service line or seeking to strengthen relationships with existing clients, a well-run health fair showcases your clinical capabilities, builds trust, and opens doors to recurring
As of January 1, 2025, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has overhauled its color vision screening requirements for pilot medical certification. All new pilot applicants must now undergo testing using computerized color vision exams, replacing the traditional Ishihara plates and other legacy tests. This policy change aims to modernize and
Introduction In occupational health, ensuring the protection of employees against infectious diseases such as Hepatitis B is both critical and challenging. With advancements in vaccine technology, healthcare providers now have the option to choose between different vaccination regimens. The decision between the traditional 3-dose recombinant Hepatitis B vaccine and the
Does your clinic permit young children to accompany patients into the exam room? We are considering a policy and would like to hear additional opinions. Most outpatient settings allow the patient to decide whether family members or others accompany them during their medical exam. There are certainly exceptions, such as
Do you have any thoughts on work comp office notes being released to the patient via electronic chart systems (i.e. MyChart)? Our health system moved our Occ Med practice to Epic unfortunately, and recently changed the settings so patients are receiving Work Comp visit notes. Historically, these notes have not
Managing workers’ compensation costs and ensuring employee well-being can be a complex task. Employers can significantly enhance their workers’ comp programs by leveraging data-driven strategies. This article explores how analyzing key metrics can pinpoint intervention opportunities and drive successful outcomes. Five Critical Metrics for Workers’ Comp Success 1. Cost per
“I have been asked to assist with a Return to work policy for our medical doctors. Can you provide any policy examples? If an MD is returning from a substance abuse rehab program, would the program certify that the MD is ok to return to work? What happens with the
In occupational medicine, moving beyond technical work to meaningful engagement is crucial for both employee and client satisfaction. Stephanie Murdock, RN, MSN, MBA, COHM, shares insights on fostering a workplace where staff feel connected to their roles. Through a strategic five-point approach, including building a collaborative culture, investing in professional development, recognizing safety champions, aligning service with value, and providing emotional support, Sanford Health enhances both team morale and service quality. This approach ensures a healthy, safe work environment while promoting profound job satisfaction.