Everwell Occupational Health

The Essential Guide to Occupational Health Assessments

11-01-2026

Maximising Workplace Productivity: The Essential Guide to Occupational Health Assessments

In today’s fast-paced business environment, your most valuable asset is your people. However, managing employee health—particularly regarding long-term sickness or recurring absences—can be one of the most complex challenges for HR teams and business owners.

At Everwell Occupational Health, our mission is to "Make a Difference." We believe that a proactive approach to Occupational Health Assessments is the key to maintaining a healthy, productive workforce and reducing the hidden costs of absenteeism.

What is an Occupational Health Assessment?

Often referred to as a Management Referral, an Occupational Health (OH) Assessment is an independent medical evaluation of an employee’s health in relation to their work.

Unlike a standard GP visit, an OH assessment is specifically designed to answer the employer's questions. It provides an expert medical opinion on:

An employee’s fitness for work.
The likelihood of a safe return to work following illness.
Practical recommendations for "reasonable adjustments" to support the employee.

When Should You Arrange an Assessment?

There is no "one-size-fits-all" time to trigger a referral, but at Everwell, we recommend considering an assessment in the following scenarios:

Long-Term Sickness Absence: When an employee has been away for four weeks or more.
Frequent Short-Term Absence: To identify if there is an underlying health issue that needs addressing.
Performance Concerns: If an employee is struggling to meet their roles' demands due to physical or mental health struggles.
Return to Work: To ensure a structured and safe reintegration after a major surgery or illness.

The Benefits: Why Invest in OH Assessments?

Investing in Occupational Health isn't just about compliance; it’s a smart business strategy.

Reduced Sickness Absence: By understanding the root cause of an absence, management can implement changes that facilitate a quicker return to work, saving the business thousands in lost productivity and temporary cover.

Expert Legal Guidance: Our clinicians provide advice aligned with the latest UK health and safety legislation and the Equality Act. This helps you make informed, fair decisions that protect both the business and the employee.

Boosted Employee Morale: When employees feel supported through health challenges, loyalty and engagement increase. A clear OH report shows that the company is committed to their wellbeing.

Nationwide Flexibility: Whether your team is based in Manchester, Leeds, London, or working remotely, Everwell offers flexible solutions. From face-to-face consultations in our regional clinics to convenient telephone and video assessments, we provide a responsive service that fits your schedule.

The Everwell Difference

At Everwell Occupational Health, we pride ourselves on a "no-nonsense" professional service. We don't just provide medical data; we provide actionable solutions. Our reports are designed to be clear, concise, and easy for HR and Line Managers to implement.

With over 2,000 clients across the UK, we have the experience to support SMEs and large corporations alike, across every sector from manufacturing to education.

Ready to Support Your Workforce?

Don’t wait for health issues to impact your bottom line. Take a proactive step toward a healthier, more productive workplace today.

Contact Everwell Occupational Health to discuss a one-off referral or a tailored support package.