The American Association of Occupational Health Nurses, Inc. (AAOHN) will celebrate Occupational Health Nursing (OHN) Week April 19-25.
Occupational health nurses play a vital role in championing your health and safety on the job. Specific things done to encourage a safer, more healthful work environment include:
Supporting Safety on the Job: Worksite visits, hazard assessments and review of work-related injuries are just a few of the responsibilities of OHNs who are trained to identify and address potential health and safety hazards in the work environment. Public Health Command OHNs work in coordination with other members of the health and safety team, including safety personnel, industrial hygienists, ergonomists, physicians and others.
Promoting Health and Worksite Wellness: As businesses and government entities struggle with rising health care costs and loss of productivity, OHNs are key to achieving optimal employee health thus reducing absenteeism, improving productivity and reducing health care costs. They do this by identifying health risks; encouraging and supporting positive, healthy lifestyles; leveraging workplace health, disease and management programs to improve employee's health and quality of life; serving as health advocates and engaging employees in taking charge of their health.
Case Management: OHNs may be involved in many stages of the case management process of work and nonwork-related injuries and illnesses. As a result of rising health care costs, the need for case management services has grown. This can include managing care, conducting assessments, evaluating resources and other support. The primary goal is to achieve optimal employee health, while ensuring a safe and timely return to work in a cost-effective manner.
Regulatory Compliance: Did you know there are hundreds of laws and regulations that govern health and safety in the workplace? Whether it's the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, worker's compensation laws/FECA, the Occupational Safety and Health Act, the Family Medical and Leave Act, or host nation law, OHNs and other occupational health and safety professionals know the ins and outs of these laws and regulations.
We work with command and management to interpret and comply with public policy decisions that protect your health and your safety as a federal employee.
As the largest group of health care providers serving the workplace, occupational health nurses positively impact the health and safety of the millions of people who work every day. Join Public Health Command in celebrating all the ways we can work together to contribute to a healthier and safer workplace.
To locate the OHN is your areas please contact: usarmy.landstuhl.medcom-phcr-e.list.usaphcre-ohs-ohd@mail.mil.
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