New Challenges for Occupational Health Programs

Our Expert: Marilyn Bishop, MD, MPH, MRO

Slides:

View the Sept 28th New challenges for OHP Dr Marilyn Bishop via Google Drive

View the Sept 28th New challenges for OHP Dr Marilyn Bishop via Dropbox

What do you believe are the biggest challenges for OHPs?
What education is recommended for employers?
What are the new PFT guidelines?
What pandemic issues is OSHA still revising?
What regulatory issues will impact OHP services?

Video:

Town Hall Overview:

As the world continues to grapple with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and its implications, occupational health programs are facing new challenges like never before. In this blog post, we will explore the insights and recommendations shared during a recent Town Hall session hosted by the National Association of Occupational Health Professionals (NAOHP). Dr. Marilyn Bishop, the Medical Director for Employee Health at Ballard Health, Johnson City, Tennessee, and Director for the Southeast Board of the NAOHP, shed light on the emerging challenges and provided valuable guidance for occupational health programs. Let’s dive in!

The Growing Importance of Mental Health:
Dr. Bishop emphasized that mental health is becoming one of the biggest challenges for occupational health programs. This challenge encompasses both providing mental health services to employees and ensuring the well-being of the staff members themselves. The pandemic has taken a toll on people’s mental health, leading to increased stress, anxiety, and grief. Occupational health programs need to prioritize mental health by collaborating with Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) and local resources to provide support and access to counseling services. This includes extending mental health assistance to employees’ families as well.
Staffing Challenges: A Call to Step Up:
Staffing shortages pose another significant challenge for occupational health programs. From medical providers to frontline workers, many sectors are grappling with a scarcity of skilled professionals. Dr. Bishop advised occupational health programs to be proactive in addressing this challenge by cross-training staff members. By diversifying skills and responsibilities, clinics can ensure seamless service delivery and maintain a high quality of care. Collaboration with external resources, such as local churches or chaplaincy programs, can also provide much-needed support to overwhelmed staff members.
Education and Awareness for Employers:
Occupational health programs have a vital role to play in educating employers about the evolving challenges and changing times. Dr. Bishop recommended staying updated with Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) guidelines and subscribing to their weekly newsletters. Additionally, public health boards and professional organizations like the American Medical Association offer valuable resources and insights. Sharing this information with employers can help them make informed decisions about workplace safety, vaccinations, and maintaining productivity.
Regulatory Issues and Impact on Occupational Health Services:
Vaccinations and COVID-19-related regulations remain at the forefront of occupational health services. With the emergence of booster shots and evolving vaccination guidelines, occupational health programs must adapt and stay informed about the latest recommendations from reputable sources like CDC and ACOM. OSHA guidelines also continue to evolve, addressing topics such as social distancing, mask mandates, and ventilation requirements. The regulatory landscape may vary across industries, making it crucial for occupational health programs to tailor their approaches accordingly.

The COVID-19 pandemic has presented unprecedented challenges for occupational health programs. In the face of mental health concerns, staffing shortages, and evolving regulations, it is crucial for programs to prioritize employee well-being, maintain vigilance in education and awareness efforts, and adapt to rapidly changing circumstances. By staying informed, collaborating with external resources, and taking proactive measures, occupational health programs can navigate the future with resilience and ensure the safety and well-being of both employees and employers.

Resources:

httpss://naohp.com/covid-19-updates-resources

httpss://acoem.org/acoem/media/News-Library/Guidance-Statement-Updated-Spirometry-8-31-2021.pdf

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