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Occupational medicine prioritizes employee well-being, contributing to a thriving work environment. Alexander Ukaoma, APRN, FNP, and his team at Somo Urgent Care in Waldorf, Maryland, tailor their occupational medicine services to meet the unique healthcare needs of businesses and employees to maintain a healthy, productive workforce. Somo Urgent Care safeguards workers and employers from workplace injury care to pre-employment screenings. Call the office or book an in-person or telehealth consultation online today.
Occupational Medicine Q & A
What is occupational health?
Occupational health is the prevention and treatment of illnesses and injuries at work. These health problems can include:
- Cuts
- Fractures (broken bones)
- Sprains and strains
- Loss of a limb
- Repetitive strain or overuse injuries
- Hearing problems from noise exposure
- Sight problems
- Exposure to toxins and chemicals
- Exposure to infection
- Chronic stress
- Depression and anxiety
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
Health problems like these can limit your ability to do your job properly or even prevent you from working. Occupational medicine is vital in preventing illness and addressing the problems that cause these conditions.
What services does occupational medicine provide?
Somo Urgent Care’s comprehensive occupational health services include:
- Treating work-related injuries
- DOT physicals
- E-prescription management
- Employee drug screening
- Case management
- Clinic management
- Wellness program management
- Employee physicals
- Injury and illness reporting
- Surveillance and compliance
- Return to work medical clearance
- Risk identification and management
- Pre-employment screening
- Compliance with regulatory requirements
Somo Urgent Care provides urgent treatment for acute job-related illnesses and injuries and longer-term rehabilitation for patients with chronic conditions.
What does occupational health involve?
Occupational health is a partnership between you and your employer. They’re responsible for providing a safe working environment, including suitable protective equipment and regular health and safety training.
Your precise needs vary depending on the work you do. For example, you might require lifting machinery to avoid straining your back if you need to move heavy weights. Alternatively, you need an ergonomically designed workstation to prevent posture problems and repetitive strain injuries if you’re an office worker.
In addition, you’re responsible for observing good health and safety practices. That means wearing protective gear, using equipment correctly, and following instructions carefully. You can also reduce your risk of occupational health problems by keeping fit and managing stress.
What treatment might I need for occupational health problems?
The occupational medicine treatment you need depends on the nature of the problem. For example, you might need counseling and medication for depression and anxiety or help learning stress management techniques.
Physical therapy is invaluable for helping you regain function after an injury or illness. Occupational therapy can be equally important, as it focuses on helping you manage everyday tasks and get back to work.
Call Somo Urgent Care for more information about occupational medicine. You can also book an in-person or telehealth appointment online at any time.