The changing face of occupational health at Nortel
09 November 2009
Now, more than ever, the need for a cost effective no-frills
occupational health service that effectively manages business
health risks is vital. Nortel’s position on the management of
sickness absence and the ‘gold star’ service to employees has had
to change to meet the financial constraints in the current economic
climate.
Issue
It is typical that many businesses have 'drop-in' occupational
health facilities which are usually professionally staffed,
full or part-time. Although this provides a fairly instant
response to the employee (and is reassuring), it may not be cost
effective requiring staffing, treatment/consultation facilities,
record keeping system, process controls etc.
Many employers are under the misconception that the Occupational
Health Department makes medical diagnoses and gives treatment
advice to employees. It is in fact only a doctor, the
treating physician, who provides this. The importance of a
diagnosis in occupational health is its application to function,
both physical and psychological, the capability of that person and
their safety in the workplace and that of others.
In addition, there can be expectation by employees that they
should receive seasonal medication (eg flu jabs) at such drop in
centres, and any vaccinations for travel. This can incur
significant additional costs due to stocking and storage of
vaccinations and support services required for vaccination
programmes. (There is also wastage if vaccinations are not used by
expiry dates)
Therefore due to the geographical spread of employees a remote
case management service is to be introduced. This will not only
provide managers with a proactive approach to managing sickness
absence and provide general advice to the employee, but assist in
reducing the carbon footprint.
Solution
Nortel is therefore changing the way in which occupational
health is provided within the organisation from both an employee
and manager perspective. The ‘drop in’ facility will be dropped and
replaced with a planned wellness programme ensuring employees have
access to a range of information and guidance in improving their
health and well being
When an employee reports absent due to ill-health, the manager
of the individual is expected to email/call a remote service
staffed by occupational health professionals who can then
begin to assess the health issue of the employee.
Effectiveness
Remote case management (RCM) is just about to be implemented in
Nortel, a follow-up article will report back on its
effectiveness.
Further information
Useful information can be found on the following websites:
David Channing, Nortel EHS Prime,
EMEA
Disclaimer - please read this
The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author
and are not necessarily those of the Institution of Occupational
Safety and Health (IOSH). Where the content includes discussion and
information about UK law or occupational health
matters, this should not be regarded as legal or
medical advice. Where legal advice is required, a suitably
qualified lawyer should be consulted. Where medical advice is
required, a suitably qualified medical practitioner should be
consulted.