Occupational health accessing medical records

[CutiePatooties]

I’m a teacher and I’ve disclosed my BPD diagnosis. I had an OH assessment and she asked if she can have access to my medical records from my GP and my psychiatrist to see if I’m safe to be working with children.

is this normal? I didn’t want anyone having access to my medical history, but if I say no to her, will they now worry? Am I better off just giving her access?

This is common, regardless of diagnosis. They would normally not get your actual medial records, but would ask questions of your GP who prepares a written response. You have the right to tell the GP that you want to see what they have written before it is sent.

I wouldn't worry inordinately about such a request - as I said it is commonplace (OH ask my GP / consultant about my arthritis every couple of years). So it isn't anything personal about you as such - it is to build a better picture.

Nobody could tell you that refusing will cause them to worry or not, but failure to co-operate with OH may cause them to assume the worst or have other consequences. It depends in circumstances, but in this case they are being upfront about the reason they are asking, so yes - they want an assurance that you are safe to work with children, and without that the employer may decide to suspend or even dismiss you. Obviously, it is a potential safeguarding issue.

This is normal procedure but please be reassured she will not be given access to your medical files. She will request a report from GP and Psychiatrist which will confirm your diagnosis, details of current treatment, how well your condition is controlled, if they expect it to cause any issues with your work and if you are likely to require any reasonable adjustment.

I'ts quite common for lots of long term conditions. If your condition is well controlled it will be fine

@Quveas @WMH thank you very much… It makes sense, I think I was just hurt by the comment but completely understand about safeguarding and that it’s necessary for them to have access. I’ll give my consent, as it is well managed and I know there’s nothing to worry about… Just felt upset to have someone question whether I’m safe around kids (I’ve been teaching for 2 years with no problems and have 2 children of my own). I guess I just take things too personally! 😅

thank you for putting my mind at ease.