Employers and employees of small to medium sized businesses in Lanarkshire can now benefit from a free and confidential NHS Occupational Health Service.
The Hope project, which was initially set up in 2000 to look at the causes of occupational ill health in the workplace, has now evolved and has launched a free telephone line that GP�s, employers and employees can contact to refer.
A service unique in Scotland, Hope offers an initial consultation with a Case Manager who will complete a holistic assessment and where appropriate give access to the following services:
Physiotherapy, Counselling, Occupational Health Physician, Occupational Health Nurse, Occupational Therapy, Complimentary Therapies��.
Clients can also be signposted to other occupational health services including health and safety and workplace advice.
Ann Marie Murphy, Case Manager, Salus Occupational Health, NHS Lanarkshire explains : � Employees with health problems can call the free, confidential phone line and arrange an appointment. This initial appointment would involve finding out about their health, what treatments they have had before and most importantly what support they feel they need to get better.�
Hope is funded to provide quick access to treatments and employees should benefit from reduced waiting times. There are benefits for employers and GPs too. Ann Marie adds: �Hope helps employees to remain at work or if they are off sick, prompt access to treatment ensures a quick and healthy return. By informing staff of these services employers can help their staff feel more valued which in turn creates a more motivated workforce. GP�s can also refer patients to the service thereby reducing waiting times for some treatments.�
To be eligible staff must have a GP in Lanarkshire and work in a small to medium sized business - less than 250 employees. Making a referral is simple. Clients can call the free phone advice line on 0800 019 2211.
For further information please contact: Ann Marie Murphy on 01236 438 133.
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