Occupational Medicine Specialist

What is occupational medicine?

Occupational medicine is a medical specialty that involves diagnosis, clinical care, management, and prevention of workplace injuries and illnesses. Different occupations involve unique sets of health and wellness risks. Your employer might require you to get specific tests or services as a condition of employment to mitigate these risks. 

The providers at Triad Primary Care can keep you up-to-date on your health and wellness needs in relation to your occupation. They provide impartial assessments and reports on your health and wellness for various purposes, including for workers’ compensation and for pre-employment testing. 

Which services can I get from occupational medicine?

Triad Primary Care offers several occupational medicine services that you may need at some point in your employment. Your options include:

Pre-employment physicals

Pre-employment physicals are comprehensive examinations you get to show you can perform your job duties safely without putting yourself or others at risk. You can also address any underlying health conditions that may impact your work abilities. 

Department of Transportation (DOT) physicals

The DOT requires individuals who drive commercial or high-capacity vehicles to get physical exams once every two years to show that they can make safe, quick decisions while operating heavy machinery and have addressed any underlying health issues that may put them or the public at risk. 

Workers’ compensation evaluations

Workers’ compensation is a type of insurance your employer holds just in case you get injured or sick on the job. It covers your medical bills as well as missed time at work. You must get an evaluation from a medical examiner to detail the injury or illness and the treatment you need. 

Employee drug testing

Many employers require drug testing prior to employment or regularly throughout your time with the company. These tests detect various illicit drugs in your system which might interfere with your performance or safety. Drug testing may be a part of your workers’ compensation evaluation too. 

What are the benefits of occupational medicine?

Occupational medicine benefits are twofold: You benefit because these services ensure your health and protect you from costs when your work impacts your health. Additionally, your employer benefits from occupational medicine because it protects them from possible job complications or accidents that can cost the company money or its reputation.

To learn more about occupational medicine, call Triad Primary Care or book an appointment online today.