Occupational Health (OH) is often described as a niche field; specific, unusual, and frequently misunderstood. Despite its vital role in health promotion and workplace wellbeing, public awareness and understanding remain limited. Whilst we work closely with our clients to improve the understanding and image of OH for their employees, little has been done at a “grassroots” level to give clinicians an insight into OH when undertaking their undergraduate studies. When I was at university OH was not taught or discussed, and I imagine this will be the same for thousands of others. Therefore, many students graduate without being aware of OH as a role or the importance of work as a health outcome. As a result, recruiting clinicians becomes more difficult as they do not see OH as a viable career path or understand the complexities of OH.
Thankfully, PAM Group are forward-thinking and a company that aims to drive change and not just follow the trends. PAM Academy, our learning and development department within PAM Group, have worked hard over several years to develop our Trainee Occupational Health Advisor course and this provides clinicians with a route into OH at a post-graduate level. However, no such route is easily accessible for physiotherapists, and little had been done to address the problem at an undergraduate level for Musculoskeletal (MSK) Clinicians, until recently.
To address these issues, As PPS clinical trainer, I developed a New Graduate Program, working closely with our Clinical Governance Director and Regional Operational Director(s) to look at operational feasibility and logistics. This New Graduate Program will enable closer working relationships with universities and allow newly qualified clinicians to have a route of employment directly into OH.
In addition, a placement program for undergraduate students, has been developed and is in the process of being approved by our Clinical Governance Director. During the development of these projects, I was put in contact with the Physiotherapy Placement Coordinator at the University of Nottingham which accelerated these projects. Following an initial conversation with the university, it was evident that a third project was needed; one that would give students access to, and an understanding of, OH before placements, and before graduating.
- For students to understand OH, work was undoubtedly needed. After speaking with those at the University of Nottingham, we agreed on two main things.
Early access to OH. Whilst we aim to support students with placements and a new graduate scheme, these opportunities are still in development. - Student development. We both need and want to have something we can offer in the short-term, that allows us to continue to build towards our long-term goals.
The solution: A 3-hour guest lecture to Nottingham University third-year physiotherapy students as part of their elective module on OH. A very proactive university initiative, and allowing PAM Group to improve the awareness of OH.
Admittedly, whilst this was a fantastic experience for me and my own development, I was nervous. It can feel like a huge responsibility to be, to an extent, the driving force for PAM Physio Solutions and spearhead the frameworks to support the integration of students and new graduates into our organisation. The opportunity to develop and deliver this guest lecture was a great start. The university and students were exceptional, and we had some fantastic discussions. The students showed a genuine interest in OH. So much so that the elective module, which at one stage had less than 10 students, now has over 20 students. The lecture was so well received that I have been invited back to lecture as part of the OH module later this year.
To provide students with a transparent and authentic insight into OH, we covered the following learning outcomes:
- To understand what OH & OH Physiotherapy are.
- Describe the difference between OH Physio & NHS MSK Physio.
- Explain the role of a Physiotherapist within an OH setting.
- Discuss ethical considerations (i.e., confidentiality and consent).
- Identify common workplace-related disorders.
- Recognise relevant professional bodies associated with OH Physiotherapy.
- Understand communication strategies and benefits within OH.
- Explore the approaches to assessment, prevention, and rehabilitation in occupational environments.
- Discuss career pathways in OH.
The importance of promoting OH cannot be overstated. We, as OH clinicians, are in an incredibly unique position to promote our area(s) of practice, support the next generation of clinicians, help shape the profession, and, in many ways, shape the OH industry. Particularly when it comes to physiotherapy practice, OH is a vital and often undersold or unknown area. We have a duty to ensure that all clinicians know about OH. Even if they do not work in OH, surely, they will become better clinicians for having that knowledge and awareness. Ultimately, we are responsible for two things: improving the profession and promoting OH. It is time we started to tackle both with purpose, pride and persistence.
Hardev Singh Agimal | Linkedin
I am an experienced physiotherapist, graduating in 2016 with a BSc in Physiotherapy, and an MSc in Advancing Physiotherapy Practice in 2017. I joined PAM Physio Solutions (PPS), part of the PAM Group, in January 2019, and I have developed my expertise to specialise in clinical education and workforce development. As PPS Clinical Educator & Training Lead, I play a key role in designing and delivering training programs that enhance clinical practice and improve patient outcomes. With a strong background in clinical operations and staff development, I am passionate about empowering clinicians through evidence-based education and innovative learning strategies. I work closely with clinical governance, leadership and frontline staff to ensure compliance, quality standards, and continuous improvement across services. I foster a collaborative approach and commitment to excellence, this drives initiatives that support professional growth and organisational success.
