Workplace health promotion embedded in medical surveillance

Abstract

Abstract The Total Worker Health© strategy is an advantageous and effective way of integrating prevention and health promotion in the workplace. The main critical points are the correct balance between prevention and promotion efforts and the extension of the projects to small companies. For several years now, in Italy, the Occupational Health Unit of the Catholic University proposed a model named Workplace Health Promotion Embedded in Medical Surveillance (WHPEMS). WHPEMS projects, which are also implemented in small companies, focus each year on a new topic that emerges from the needs of workers. During their regular medical check-up in the workplace, workers are invited to fill in a questionnaire regarding the project topic, its outcome, and some related factors. Workers receive advice on how to improve their lifestyles and are referred to the National Health Service for any necessary tests or treatments. The design of the project, the development of the investigative tools and the operating procedures are carried out by the University. The doctors in charge of the health surveillance of the workers in the various companies can join and receive the results free of charge. The data analysis is conducted by the University. Despite its apparent simplicity, the strategy required many years to develop, refine and validate the promotion methods. In recent years projects have dealt with: Eating behavior disorders; Post-COVID syndrome; Syncope and presyncope; Headache; Musculoskeletal disorders; Work engagement; Sleep health promotion; Aging and ability to work; Violence at work; Work organization; Indoor air quality; Mediterranean Diet. More than 30,000 workers participated and over 1,000 of them were invited to undergo diagnostic tests or treatments. The participatory character of the projects, their simplicity and cost-effectiveness, the integration between occupational medicine and basic medicine demonstrate that WHPEMS projects are economical, sustainable, and effective. Key messages • Workplace Health Promotion Embedded in Medical Surveillance Projects are economical, sustainable, and effective. • The creation of a network of occupational physicians who are involved in WHPEMS projects respects corporate and professional independence and improves the work culture, health, and safety of workers.