As employees return to their places of work across the country post-lockdown Occupational Health assessments are playing a huge part in helping employers adjust to a new normal. Here one of our Occupational Health advisers explains how OH is helping employers and employees to navigate a time of great change in the workplace

Q: The Covid-19 pandemic has put more pressure on employers in terms of their responsibilities towards their employees. Do you see an increased need for the insights which Occupational Health assessments are able to offer?

A: OH practitioners have been providing timely and up-to-date advice to employers and employees to assist in management of health and wellbeing throughout the pandemic. They have also been able to manage expectations during a time when employers and employees have navigated extensive changes to workplace practices.

Q: How has the impact of Long Covid affected Occupational Health and what can Occupational Health assessments do to help?

A: Long Covid has raised complex health issues, and OH assessments are consistently evolving through evidence-based research. We can advise on reasonable adjustments, as well as signposting patients to their GP or other relevant support services. A range of support services are also available to employees either online, via apps or through local services, particularly with regards to mental health.

Q: How do you think Citi Health assessments are able to help companies to best support their employees? For instance, do you think talking to a neutral medical professional helps, rather than HR departments?

A: Experienced practitioners can provide guidance to both employer and employees on health and work-related issues in line with pertinent legislation and evidence-based research as well as signposting to other useful services.

Q: Have you noticed changes in any of the issues you see coming up with employees in the past five years?

A: During the initial Covid-19 pandemic referrals became more complex. We saw more referrals due to underlying health issues that may not have previously been raised, for instance we see more extremely vulnerable workers. Anxiety, depression, and mental health issues have also significantly increased due to changes in the way people are working.

If you’d like to find out more about Citi Health’s fast, reliable Occupational Health Assessments, just get in touch on 0203 633 6301 or email contact@citihealth.co.uk