Case Study

Tim was offered a role as a Support Worker. He completed a Pre-employment Health Questionnaire (PEHQ) and declared that he had diabetes. The PEHQ was assessed by InterHealthâ€™s Occupational health team...

Managing a pre-existing condition in the workplace

Tim was offered a role as a Support Worker. He completed a Pre-employment Health Questionnaire (PEHQ) and declared that he had diabetes. The PEHQ was assessed by InterHealth’s Occupational health team and a telephone assessment undertaken.

The Occupational Health Adviser discussed Tim’s condition with him and obtained information on his symptoms, medication and previous work history. He was anxious about working shifts and the Occupational Health Adviser was able to provide advice on this. Tim was passed “fit for work” and additional advice given to Human Resources on how to support him in managing his condition effectively from a work perspective. Tim was able to undertake his role and cope effectively with working shifts and administering his medication at work.

In most cases, individuals are fit for work unless their condition prevents them from undertaking the role (even with reasonable workplace adjustments) or the role poses significant risks to their health. Pre-employment health assessments enable a “risk assessment” to be undertaken and for advice to be provided to the individual and an organisation. This is required to help assist the individual in managing their condition effectively from a work perspective and to help prevent potential issues with attendance or performance.