Frequently Asked Questions
Clear answers to common questions about occupational health services and workplace health support.
Occupational health can sometimes feel unfamiliar or complex, particularly for smaller organisations without in-house support.
Below are answers to some of the most common questions employers and managers ask about our services and the occupational health process.
SECTION 1 — GENERAL OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH QUESTIONS
What is occupational health?
Occupational health helps employers and employees manage health in relation to work. This may include sickness absence, fitness for work assessments, return to work planning, workplace adjustments, and support for health conditions affecting work performance.
When should an employer refer someone to occupational health?
Common reasons include prolonged or repeated sickness absence, uncertainty regarding fitness for work, mental health concerns, workplace adjustments, return to work planning, or concerns about safety-critical work.
Do employees have to attend occupational health appointments?
Occupational health appointments are generally voluntary. However, an employee’s decision not to engage may limit the advice available to the employer.
Is occupational health on the employer’s side or the employee’s side?
Occupational health is independent. The aim is to provide fair, evidence-based advice that supports both employee wellbeing and workplace functioning.
SECTION 2 — THE PROCESS
What happens during an occupational health assessment?
The clinician will discuss the employee’s health, work role, current difficulties, and any relevant workplace factors. Following the assessment, a report may be provided to the employer with appropriate consent.
How long do appointments last?
Appointment length varies depending on the complexity of the situation and the type of assessment being performed.
Are consultations remote or face-to-face?
Most consultations are delivered securely via video consultation, allowing faster access and flexibility. Face-to-face assessments can also be arranged where appropriate.
How quickly can appointments be arranged?
Appointment availability depends on demand and assessment type, but Worklife Medical aims to provide responsive access and efficient communication.
SECTION 3 — REPORTS & CONFIDENTIALITY
Will the employer receive medical information?
Occupational health reports focus on functional impact and workplace recommendations rather than unnecessary medical detail. Information is shared appropriately and with consent.
Are occupational health assessments confidential?
Yes. Occupational health consultations are confidential medical assessments conducted in line with professional and data protection standards.
Does the employee see the report first?
Employees are generally offered the opportunity to review reports before release to the employer.
SECTION 4 — SERVICES
What types of businesses do you support?
Worklife Medical supports employers across a range of sectors, with particular focus on SMEs and organisations seeking responsive, practical occupational health advice.
Do you provide pre-employment medicals?
Yes. Worklife Medical provides pre-employment and safety-critical medical assessments tailored to role requirements.
Do you offer ongoing support for businesses?
Yes. Retainer-based occupational health support can be arranged for organisations requiring regular access to occupational health advice and case management.
SECTION 5 — PRACTICAL QUESTIONS
How do we make a referral?
Employers can contact Worklife Medical directly using the enquiry form on the contact page. We review all enquiries and advise on the most appropriate next steps.
Do you support businesses outside Cheshire and Merseyside?
Yes. Remote consultations allow Worklife Medical to support organisations across the UK.
Can managers speak to you before making a referral?
Yes. Management advice consultations can help employers understand whether occupational health involvement is appropriate and what support may be helpful.