Occupational Health Appointment

Tracey2609

Hi

I've been signed off work initially for 6 weeks whilst I have Chemotherapy, this will cover two cycles of Chemo, I might be signed off again for another 3/4 weeks after the initial 6 weeks for the last cycle of Chemo. (I'm due to have 3 cycles of Chemo in total).

I am going to be referred by work to Occupational Health and I'm not sure what to expect. I'm guessing that they will ask me some questions about my overall health etc. But I really don't know - obviously I'm ill, I wouldn't be having Chemo for the sake of it...

Can you give me any ideas of what to expect? I think it's just the fear of the unknown...

Thanks

Tracey

Uncertain

Sorry to learn of your situation.

OH's function is to advise the employer how your health may affect your work and of any special steps or precautions they need to take.

Cancer is automatically a disability as far as employment law is concerned so this means the employer must make reasonable adjustments to accommodate your needs.

What is reasonable of course is a huge area and it does not mean turning the business on its head or doing things that are totally uneconomic. Generally more would be expected of a big organisation than if you work for a small business.

Tracey2609

Thanks Uncertain, I'll wait for the appointment - to be fair it's not like I'm trying to pull the wool over their eyes or anything, I work for a local authority so I'm pretty sure that they are going to be fair to me, and my line manager has been really supportive. I just wondered what to expect and the kind of questions that they are going to ask.

Savvy_Sue

I can only tell you about my experience after I had to have a new half shoulder unexpectedly ...

My employer suggested OH, I was glad to go. My concerns about going back into the office were explored (stairs for example, I didn't like the stairs), and my need for a phased return and limited duties.

Useful report sent to my employer, reassuring for me.

macalacka

As an HR Officer I do not ever send anyone receiving treatment for cancer for OCH appointments, however, I can only expect that your employer would be looking to seek advice on how to support you on your return to work. However, if you are not happy with this I would ask them to defer your appointment when you have a more definately return to work date.