Referring a Case to Occupational HealthWhat to Expect.

Presented by

Jean FisherDirector

The OH Businesswww.theohbusiness.co.uk

When to Refer to OH?

• Early!! Don’t wait for the sick note!!• Before absence occurs-Notice employee changes.• At once for ‘Stress’ or musculoskeletal absence.• For frequent short term absence.• If any significant diagnosis refer immediately• If any performance concerns ? Health related.• Before any disciplinary.

How to Refer

• Speak with employee first.• Advise of concerns regarding health.• Explain and reassure how OH can provide

support and advice.• Complete the referral form.• Put as much Information as you can!• Ask for specific OH advice..what do you want

to know.

Completing The Form

• Include full history of the employee absences.• Describe what action taken so far?• Have you spoken to the employee?• Include copies of interview notes etc.• Put in as much information as possible about job.• What adjustments might be possible for this

role?• Undertake a Stress risk assessment to evaluate

concerns about the job.

The Report will Include

• Answers to your questions…make sure you ask• Return to work timescales.• Advice on capability despite medical condition

being present.• Timescales for recovery of condition.• If the Equality Act likely/not likely to apply• Advice on reasonable adjustments.• Whether the employee may have further

absences.

Summary

• Use OH for opinion on capability and fitness for work.• Early identification of issues is key so refer early.• OH can provide information to help you to manage

employee.• You will get clear actionable advice in the report.• You are not reliant on GP opinion which will medicalise

absence.• OH will focus on capability not disability.• OH can only advise….. management must decide.