Ethics Guidance for Occupational Health Practice 9th Edition - Book - Page 32
2.58. Where practicable, standards should be promoted that equate to those applied
in countries that have long embraced a health and safety culture. Consideration
should also be given to the socio-political and public health context in which
companies are operating. Occupational health professionals should be
prepared to advise (or seek advice) on supplementing primary and secondary
care provision for workers.
Self-employed or subcontracted professionals
2.59. It is increasingly common for occupational health professionals to work in a
self-employed or sub-contracted capacity. The same professional and ethical
behaviours that are outlined throughout this document apply equally to those
who choose to sub-contract their time as to those who choose to work within
a corporate structure.
2.60. Self-employed or subcontracted professionals should also work within their
competencies and boundaries, but where they find themselves working for
agencies or intermediaries that do not adhere to the professional and ethical
standards outlined in this document, they are expected to raise their concerns
in a constructive fashion.
2.61. Occupational Health Professionals are expected, if the agency/intermediary
persistently declines to improve their practice, to discontinue any ongoing
relationship. In extreme circumstances, whistleblowing may be required. Peer
support for isolated practitioners should be encouraged either in local peer
support groups or online groups.
Advertising
2.62. Occupational health professionals may wish to advertise their services and
promote the benefits of their expertise to potential customers. Occupational
physicians must follow GMC 15 requirements; occupational health nurse advisers
must comply with section 21 of the NMC Code; and HCPC-registered
professionals must meet HCPC Standards of Conduct, Performance and Ethics.
In general, these limit promotional material to the provision of factual
information about professional qualifications and services.
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