So, what’s the difference between Medical Surveillance and Medical Screenings? Medical surveillance and medical screening may seem like interchangeable terms. While similar, there are a few distinct differences between surveillance and screening.
To help you understand the difference between the two, take a moment to read this breakdown of medical surveillance and medical screening.
Medical Surveillance
Under OSHA compliance regulations, an employee’s medical status is monitored and evaluated over a period of time. To determine his or her baseline measures, an employee’s work and medical history are reviewed to check for early signs of potential medical conditions from either work-related activity or work-related exposure which may put an employee at risk.
The results of a surveillance exam inform an employer on his or her standard to comply with protective actions from OSHA regulations. The objective of the surveillance is to rectify or eliminate the issue causing the work-related issue or exposure.
Medical Screenings
In medical screenings, employees are tested for health conditions or diseases before symptoms appear. Like a standard medical check-up, urine, blood, or other bodily samples may be taken from the employee for testing to ensure he or she is healthy and protected while at work.
In short, a medical screening is just one of the steps in the medical surveillance process.
Get your surveillance/screenings today!
So, now that you know the difference between medical surveillance and medical screenings, partner with an organization that has the knowledge and technology to help you with both. At Examinetics, we’ll design a medical surveillance/screening plan you need for your organization.
Essential links
OSHA Safety and Health Topic: Medical Screening and Surveillance
OSHA topic for medical screening and surveillance
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health
NIOSH Topic Area – Surveillance
Business Owner Briefing
OSHA paper: Screening and surveillance: a guide to OSHA standards
Medical Director Review
Medical Surveillance in Work-Site Safety and Health Programs – May 1, 2000 – American Academy of Family Physicians
---