Occupational Medicine

What is occupational medicine?

Occupational medicine is an area of practice that deals with workplace-related illness, injury, and health. There are many aspects of occupational medicine and many paths that can bring you in to see an occupational medicine specialist. 

Some employers maintain a relationship with a practice that offers occupational medicine services. This allows companies or organizations to send employees to a practice where they are familiar with the staff and confident about the quality of care. 

Some workers find their own way to Physicians Medical Urgent Care after experiencing an illness or injury connected to their employment. No matter what brings you in for care, you can rest assured you are in the best of hands, and that all of your paperwork needs related to your medical services will be met. 

How does preventive health factor into occupational medicine?

In the early versions of occupational medicine, the primary focus was on addressing workplace illness and injuries as the need arose. Today, occupational medicine goes beyond to offer preventive health benefits. 

Some jobs are more physically demanding than others, and some bring a higher level of risk. Physicians Medical Urgent Care works with workers to find ways to promote optimal health and prevent injury or illness. 

When you come in for a comprehensive physical exam, your practitioner can help you understand your current state of health. You learn how to make lifestyle changes to improve your health and explore treatment options for chronic disease or other challenges you may face. 

Be sure to mention your occupation and share the details of your work environment. Whether it’s ways to improve your posture in front of a computer screen or stretches that can prevent repetitive stress injury, your practitioner can help you avoid health problems at work. 

What if I need documentation for a workplace injury?

If you become sick or hurt on the job, documentation is an important part of the workers’ compensation process. Your practitioner at Physicians Medical Urgent Care can assess your condition, provide immediate care, and chart a long term treatment path. 

Workers who are exposed to chemical fumes, smoke, and particulate matter often suffer breathing challenges, including workplace-induced asthma. Spirometry is one diagnostic tool commonly used in workplace illness and injury. This test, also called a pulmonary function test (PFT) measures your lung function and can help determine if your current treatment path is meeting your needs. 

Additional screening options, including advanced imaging and lab work, are available as needed. Your practitioner records all the details of your diagnosis and treatment to comply with workers’ comp requirements. 

If you or a loved one needs occupational medicine services, call Physicians Medical Urgent Care, or book an appointment online today.