A service evaluation of an occupational health Covid-19 referral pathway

Background A rapid management referral pathway was established by a private UK occupational health (OH) provider to offer assessments and advice on managing individual risk relating to Covid-19 in the workplace. Aims The aim of this service evaluation was to assess the utilization and effectiveness of the pathway in supporting referrers during a pandemic. Methods Referrals between March–August 2020 were analysed by date and industry to assess service utilization. A survey was sent to a convenience sample of referrers throughout this period, requesting feedback on whether the report led to a change in how the worker was managed, and whether it increased referrer confidence in managing the worker. Results Five hundred and seventy referrals were made, predominantly from wholesale and retail; professional, scientific and technical; and food and drink production. There was a small peak of referrals from manufacturing in April and a larger peak in July–August from wholesale and retail, and food and drink production. Of 166 surveys sent, 58 were completed (35% response rate). In 71% of cases, referrers indicated that the report led to change in how the worker was managed, and in 86% of cases, referrers reported being more confident in managing the worker. Conclusions The pathway was well-utilized. OH assessments and advice have an important role to play in a pandemic, with useful impact on how workers are managed and how confident managers feel in managing workers.