My Experience with Occupational Health Requirements and Checks Before Starting the First Job as a New Doctor in the NHS

Collected and written by: Mohamed Hassan 

Disclaimer

You have to check the up-to-date information about the topic 

also, review the local legal regulations

Starting your first job as a new doctor in the NHS comes with various occupational health requirements and checks. These measures are in place to ensure the safety, well-being, and fitness to work of healthcare professionals. Drawing from my personal experience, as well as insights from reliable sources, I will share my journey and provide guidance on navigating these occupational health requirements.

 1. Occupational Health Assessment

Before commencing your first job as a doctor in the NHS, you will undergo an occupational health assessment. This assessment is typically conducted every time you take a new post, are appointed to a new NHS employer, or change job title[1]. The purpose of this assessment is to evaluate your health and fitness to work in a healthcare setting.

## 2. Importance of Occupational Health and Wellbeing

The NHS recognizes the significant impact of the pandemic and the future burden of underdiagnosed diseases and long-term conditions on the workforce[2]. Access to high-quality occupational health and wellbeing support is crucial to ensure the safety, health, and protection of NHS staff in their roles. Occupational health professionals play a vital role in ensuring the well-being and resilience of healthcare professionals[2].

## 3. Consistency and Variation in Provision

While occupational health and wellbeing (OHWB) professionals are essential in keeping NHS staff safe and well, there can be variation and inequality in OHWB provision across different NHS organizations[2]. It is important to advocate for consistent and equitable access to occupational health services for all healthcare workers.

## 4. Support for International Medical Graduates (IMGs)

IMGs joining the NHS are required to undergo occupational health assessments when starting a new post, being appointed to a new NHS employer, or changing job titles[1]. These assessments ensure that IMGs meet the necessary health requirements and are fit to work.

## 5. Work-Life Balance

Achieving a work-life balance is a significant challenge for NHS doctors[5]. Occupational health services can play a role in supporting doctors in managing their workload and promoting well-being. It is important to prioritize self-care and seek support when needed to maintain a healthy work-life balance.

## 6. Dress Code and Clinical Areas

For junior doctors, the dress code is typically smart casual up to business casual, and it is important to be "bare below the elbows" when in clinical areas[6]. Adhering to the dress code helps maintain hygiene and professionalism in healthcare settings.

In conclusion, occupational health requirements and checks are an integral part of starting your first job as a doctor in the NHS. These measures ensure the safety, well-being, and fitness to work of healthcare professionals. It is important to undergo the necessary occupational health assessments, advocate for consistent provision of occupational health services, and prioritize your own well-being and work-life balance. By embracing these requirements, you can embark on your journey as a new doctor in the NHS with confidence and a focus on providing excellent patient care.

Citations:

[1] https://www.bdiresourcing.com/img-media-hub/blog/nhs-occupational-health-for-imgs/

[2] https://www.england.nhs.uk/long-read/growing-occupational-health-and-wellbeing-together-our-roadmap-for-the-future/

[3] https://www.bmj.com/content/352/bmj.i292

[4] https://academic.oup.com/occmed/article/53/1/47/1455166

[5] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9WAPV84QfiQ

[6] https://thesavvyimg.co.uk/10-ways-to-prepare-for-your-first-job-in-the-nhs-as-an-img/