Occupational health

[KarlDilkington]

Hi we would like an occupation health doctor to see an employee. My question is do these doctors have access to the patients health records? As in, If the employee hasn't actually seen a doctor for a condition and has lied to us, will the doctor know and be able to tell us?

Thanks.

No. They will assess the individual on the basis of their medical knowledge and what they are told. You need to ask specific questions eg.

• What is the prognosis?
• When are they likely to be able to return to work?
• Are there any adjustments that could be put in place to enable the individual to work?
• Are they ever likely to be able to do this job again?

You would normally have a pre-referral call with the doctor to discuss the individual and what you're hoping to get out of the referral. Bear in mind that anything you put on the referral form can and will be shared with the individual.

Depending on the situation, the doctor may feel they would like more information and may seek permission from the individual (normally through you as the employer) to access medical records relating to the diagnosis. The individual may refuse. And equally they may refuse to share the report with you.

Ultimately, however, you can only base your decisions on the information that is available to you and that you could reasonably have known.

Thank you so much for that reply, much appreciated