Who We Help:
General Practitioners
Streamline your patients’ recovery with
rapid access to specialist care and support,
helping them return to work sooner.
How We Support You
Our approach is rooted in evidence-based musculoskeletal medicine, reflecting the latest advancements that may not have been covered in medical school. We also possess a deep understanding of environmental hazards and the implications for human health.
Navigating the complexities of working with insurers and employers can be daunting, but our team is here to support you. We maintain fast access and regular communication to ensure you and your patient are always informed.
We prioritise early intervention. If a case appears complex, refer the patient to us from day one. If there’s no improvement by week four post-injury, don’t hesitate to refer again. Unsure about a case? Just give us a call for guidance.
What Does an Occupational and Environmental Physician (OEP) Do?
Occupational and environmental physicians are specialists accredited by the Royal Australasian College of Physicians (RACP) who operate at the intersection of work and health.
Their primary role is to prevent workplace injuries and illnesses. When accidents do occur, they are experts in facilitating a safe return to normal living and work.
With advancements in medical best practices, OEPs apply the most recent and comprehensive evidence-based treatments to expedite recovery, reduce suffering, and enhance the quality of life for injured workers. They also help navigate the bureaucratic complexities of compensation schemes, alleviating the administrative burden on you.
What to Expect During an Assessment with an OEP
During an assessment, your patient will spend approximately 30 minutes face-to-face with an OEP and their team. This process includes:
All imaging will be discussed with the patient beforehand to clarify what we expect to see and to mitigate any concerns about unrelated findings, such as disc ‘bulges’ versus true ‘protrusions’.
Our collaborative approach also includes coordinating with allied health professionals for patient reconditioning and, if needed, arranging prompt referrals to the appropriate surgeons.
At the conclusion of the consultation, both you and the patient will receive a comprehensive, individualised plan.
Information Provided Back to Referring General Practitioners
Following a referral, you can expect a detailed report from the OEP.
This will outline the diagnosis, treatment plan, and management recommendations, providing you with the necessary information to continue supporting your patient effectively. Our aim is to work collaboratively with you to achieve the best outcomes.
Treatment Options Offered by an OEP
What sets OEPs apart is that we have more time available to us to consult with patients. We take the time to explore the causes of their injuries and discuss treatment options thoroughly, ensuring they are actively involved in their recovery journey. By working closely with allied health professionals, we monitor progress and offer guidance on what patients are safe to undertake during treatment.
Differences Between an OEP and a Vocational Rehabilitation Provider
As specialist physicians, OEPs focus on the holistic care of the patient while guiding vocational rehabilitation providers in treatment strategies. We collaborate with the patient’s workplace to ensure effective accommodations upon their return and to implement preventive measures against future injuries.
Referrals and Patient Care Management
Referrals to OEPs do not require prior approval from insurers, similar to referrals to any other specialist. Once a GP refers a patient, the OEP will manage the specific injury while keeping you involved in the patient’s ongoing care. Our role is to facilitate communication and collaboration, ensuring that the patient remains your patient throughout the process.
Differences in Roles During Medicolegal Assessments
When conducting Independent Medical Evaluations (IMEs), OEPs do not provide treatment advice. Instead, our focus is on evaluating the relationship between the mechanism of injury and the diagnosis. We assess treatment effectiveness, identify potential issues, and determine the individual’s ongoing safe capacity.
Referrals and Patient Care Management
Referrals to OEPs do not require prior approval from insurers, similar to referrals to any other specialist. Once a GP refers a patient, the OEP will manage the specific injury while keeping you involved in the patient’s ongoing care. Our role is to facilitate communication and collaboration, ensuring that the patient remains your patient throughout the process.
Our Services
Our customised services are designed to meet the unique needs of your organisation, ensuring the health and well-being of your workforce. Specialist OEP services include:
Injury Management
Rapid, expert-led injury advice and management, helping you to respond effectively to workplace injuries and support worker recovery.
Telemedicine
Immediate and accessible healthcare through telehealth consultations, ensuring timely medical advice and follow-up care, no matter where you are.
Alcohol and Drug Management & Certified MRO Services
Comprehensive programs to manage alcohol and/or drug use in the workplace, including testing and monitoring. We deliver Certified MRO services for interpretation of results to ensure safety, compliance, and actionable outcomes.
Employment Medicals
Pre-employment and routine medical assessments designed to evaluate fitness for work and ensure a healthy workforce.
Occupational and Environmental Medical Consultancy
Providing expert advice on occupational health, from designing health surveillance processes to investigating workplace incidents.
Health Surveillance
Ongoing monitoring of employee health to identify and manage workplace health risks, for those working with hazardous substances. We identify and manage workplace health risks ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.
On The Right Track® Assessments
Assessing the progress of injured or ill workers, identifying potential barriers to recovery, and recommending strategies to expedite return to work.
Health Improvement Plans
Medically guided plans to help employees manage health issues that impact their work, ensuring better health outcomes and productivity.
Book an Appointment
Get in touch with us today to take the first step towards a healthier workforce.
Ready to Enhance Your Workplace Health?
Phoenix Occupational Medicine makes it easy to book an appointment. Whether you prefer a telehealth consultation or an in-clinic visit, our team is here to support you.