An analysis of 2846 industrial illnesses and injuries seen in a family practice.

We analyzed 2846 industrial illnesses and injuries in 2430 patients seen in a family practice with a large occupational medicine component over a three-and-a-half-year period. Of the 268 medical diagnoses made, back injuries and cumulative trauma disorders to the upper extremities comprised the majority. A large number of pesticide and chemical exposures were also seen. Consultations were obtained in 16.7% of the cases and 61.7% of the cases were closed as resolved. There were 17 patients hospitalized and no deaths. We recommend that family practice residents be trained in the procedures and laws of the workers' compensation system as well as in treating specific occupational health problems.