Ethics Guidance for Occupational Health Practice 9th Edition - Book - Page 21
Continuing professional development
2.09. Lifelong learning is the defining hallmark of a professional; all occupational
health professionals should devote adequate time and resources
to maintaining and improving their skills and knowledge. These regulatory
requirements impose specific obligations and compliance is required.
Reflection is a key part of this learning. Even for those occupational health
professionals who are not subject to regulation, participation in one or more
formal schemes for professional development is highly recommended.
Obtaining an external view of personal strengths and weaknesses is a valuable
adjunct to reflective practice. Occupational health professionals, who have
leadership or management responsibilities, should ensure that colleagues for
whom they are responsible can continuously improve their standards of
practice.
Quality improvement activity
2.10. It is important to review and evaluate the quality of the work that occupational
health professionals provide. This will help identify what works well in practice
and makes appropriate changes. A continuous cycle of review, reflection and
improvements where necessary should be incorporated into the Occupational
Health Professional’s practice.
Feedback
2.11. Revalidation standards mandate seeking feedback from colleagues, workers,
patients, other stakeholders and professionals should be used reflect,
learn from and continuously improve practice. Occupational Health Services
should ensure that this is part of the appraisal process.
Teaching and training
2.12. There is an inherent requirement for occupational health professionals
to disseminate information, deliver instruction and provide training to workers
and to managers.
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