Question

The role of the doctor in present pendamic situation

Answer 1

Answer:

The current COVID-19 pandemic poses several public health challenges. The demands placed on health services are huge, as is the need to take population protection measures. The impacts are immediately reflected on health teams. They experience increased demands and risks, such as exposure to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, and a compromise of their mental health.

Companies are also strongly impacted by the current situation. Some experience increased demands for their products and services, whereas others are affected by the drastic reduction in performance. Companies often employ occupational physicians, that is, specialists responsible for the health care of their employees and for ensuring a safe and healthy work environment.

Doctors working in companies must use their technical knowledge to ensure the best actions to protect the health of the workers. Concurrently, they must be aware of the work environment and the production process to suggest the best adaptations. In the current pandemic situation, the role of a doctor in a company has been strategic in ensuring the best health conditions at the workplace.

This editorial is intended at suggesting good practices to doctors working in companies. For this, it is necessary to understand the interests of employers and employees and the role of a company physician as an internal health promoter in this unique scenario.

Companies want to continue normal operations, but they need to maintain satisfactory levels of safety. Additionally, they need to manage absenteeism, as the workforce will be reduced when employees become ill or are suspected of being infected. Sometimes corporate decision makers take measures that are not in line with the best scientific evidence, with the intention of protecting workers. Companies also need to reassure their shareholders who are unsure about the fate and viability of their businesses. This is especially important when companies need to comply with government regulations by taking administrative measures that may displease their stakeholders.