Exploring a Career in Occupational Health as a Portfolio GP

Introduction 

As the landscape of general practice continues to evolve, many GPs are exploring portfolio careers, allowing them to diversify their professional experience. One such avenue is occupational health, a field that focuses on the relationship between health and work. Here’s a guide on how you can transition into occupational health as a portfolio GP. 

Occupational health involves the assessment and management of work-related health issues. This can range from evaluating an employee’s fitness to work, to advising employers on workplace safety and health promotion strategies. It's a specialty that intersects medicine, public health, and employment law, offering a unique opportunity for GPs to apply their clinical skills in a new context. 

Why Choose Occupational Health? 

• Diverse Opportunities: Working in occupational health allows you to engage in a wide variety of cases, from physical health assessments to mental health support. 
• Flexible Work Arrangements: Many occupational health roles offer flexible hours, making it ideal for GPs seeking to balance clinical work with other interests. 
• Work-Life Balance: The nature of the work often allows for more regular working hours compared to traditional GP roles. 

Steps to Get Started Gain Relevant Experience: 

• Shadowing: Begin by shadowing an experienced occupational health physician to get a feel for the role. This will give you insight into the daily responsibilities and challenges of the job. 
• Part-Time or Locum Work: Consider taking on part-time or locum work in occupational health to build your experience. Many organizations are open to hiring GPs for these roles. 

Undertake Further Training: 

• Diploma in Occupational Medicine (DipOccMed): Obtaining a DipOccMed is highly recommended. It’s a recognized qualification that provides essential knowledge in occupational health. The course is typically part-time and can be completed alongside your GP duties. 
• Continuing Professional Development (CPD): Regularly attend CPD events related to occupational health. This helps you stay updated on the latest developments in the field and enhances your professional network. 
• Networking and Professional Memberships: Join Professional Bodies: Membership in organizations like the Faculty of Occupational Medicine (FOM) can provide valuable resources, networking opportunities, and access to job listings. 
• Attend Conferences: Participating in occupational health conferences allows you to connect with professionals in the field and learn about potential job opportunities. 

Finding the Right Job: 

• Job Portals: Search for occupational health roles on job portals like NHS Jobs, BMJ Careers, and specialist sites such as Occupational Health Jobs. 
• Direct Applications: Consider applying directly to companies, as many large organizations have in-house occupational health departments. 

Balancing Your Portfolio: 

• Plan Your Week: Balance your occupational health work with your GP duties by planning your week effectively. Ensure that you allocate time for clinical work, occupational health duties, and any other professional development activities. 
• Stay Flexible: As a portfolio GP, it’s important to stay adaptable and open to opportunities as they arise. 

Conclusion 

Transitioning into occupational health as a portfolio GP can be a rewarding career move. It offers the chance to apply your clinical skills in a new context, work flexible hours, and engage in diverse and challenging cases. By gaining experience, pursuing further qualifications, and networking within the field, you can successfully make this transition and enjoy the benefits of a portfolio career.