Exploring the need for an occupational health service for those working in primary care.

A research nurse interviewed 55 practice staff in 11 general practices to ascertain their views about their needs for occupational health care. In a second parallel study, a specialist in occupational medicine undertook an in-depth audit of occupational health provision in five other general practices with respect to the organization, the health and safety process, the services and the working environment. In the first study, the majority of practice staff reported the need for various aspects of occupational health care, particularly stress at work. In the second study, general practitioners and practice managers possessed a basic awareness of occupational health matters such as Health and Safety legislation, but their limited knowledge was not translated into effective management. General practice staff did not know where to obtain occupational health advice; most practices had no policies or procedures in place to manage health and safety. Both studies illustrate the need for expert occupational health advice in primary care.