An Occupational Health Service (OHS) is a specialist medical service that advises on the relationship between work and health. Occupational Health practitioners assess whether an employee is fit to work, recommend workplace adjustments, and support safe return to work after serious illness or injury.
For cardiac arrest survivors, Occupational Health can be a key resource during return to work planning. An Occupational Health assessment typically covers: current functional capacity and stamina, cognitive difficulties such as memory or concentration problems, the physical and psychological demands of the role, any safety-critical aspects of the job (for example, driving or working at height), and recommendations for phased return, adjusted hours, or reasonable adjustments.
Occupational Health is usually arranged through the employer. Employees have the right to see their Occupational Health report before it is shared with the employer. Not all employers have an OHS; smaller businesses may use an external provider. If Occupational Health support is unavailable, vocational rehabilitation services and Access to Work can provide alternative support. Your Cardiac Nurse Specialist can provide a letter summarising your condition and needs.
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