Aging Baby Boomers May Increase Work-Related Injuries

So, how old are you? Do you fall into this category of soon being an elderly boomer? If you are then this may be very pertinent information to know.

The generation known as the "baby boomers" is soon to be known as the "elderly boomers" and in turn will create the healthcare workers to have to work harder and longer. According to the National Council on Compensation Insurance, long-term care industry will be impacted substantially by the aging of the population. This as well is expected to raise workers' compensation as aging employees also need accommodations to stay in the health field.

As injury rates are dropping overall in the work industry it appears that for the health care worker this is not so. As a medical practitioner in occupational medicine most of the work related injuries that I treat are those that work in the health care fields such as hospitals, nursing homes and home health aides. These injuries are usually musculoskeletal related. So it is concerning that with the aging population and the aging work force of how many more injuries will arise. NCCI states that the frequency of workers' compensation claims in nursing homes alone are double than the national average for private industry. Read More

What is Occupational Medicine?

There are many different areas of medicine, however some just aren't easily recognized by the title of that area of expertise. Occupational Medicine is one of those sub-specialties that most are not familiar with. The misconception is that it is related to a form of occupational therapy which in itself is an entirely different specialty. As a Physician Assistant working in an occupational health setting my specialty is often confused with another area of medicine.
It is unique in that we deal most of the time with well individuals seeking employment or individuals seeking to return to work as soon as possible so the interest of recovery is higher. It can also be challenging as some may not be fit for certain positions, however as a health care provider accommodations should be done to get them employed. It is in the best interest of both employee and employer. I think the better educate we are about the specialties in medicine will also allow for better resources.