What to consider when seeing patients with work-related health concerns.

Many physicians have not received formal training in occupational medicine, yet they are often asked to help their patients with work-related concerns. Four general questions are presented for physicians to consider when dealing with such issues: (1) Beyond duties to the patient as part of the doctor-patient relationship, what other professional obligations exist? (2) What should and shouldn't be communicated to employers and other third parties? (3) Are there clear clinical justifications for all recommendations and notes provided? (4) Outside of clinical management, where can patients be directed for more help? Advice is offered to better explain the roles and responsibilities physicians may have in these encounters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]