1. Purpose
This document outlines the Occupational Health Screening Process for applicants and students of the Level 6 Diploma in Paramedic Science (RQF). This process ensures compliance with HCPC Standards, safeguarding both students and the public during practice placements.
It incorporates best practices derived from NHS Employers’ Work Health Assessment guidelines to ensure comprehensive health checks and reasonable adjustments where necessary.
2. Scope
The process applies to all applicants and enrolled students, who must demonstrate compliance with health requirements as part of their admission and progression within the programme.
These requirements are crucial for ensuring that students are fit to practice safely and effectively in demanding healthcare environments, including frontline ambulance services and hospitals.
3. Screening Stages
3.1 Pre-Offer Health Declaration
Before a conditional offer is issued, applicants are required to complete an Occupational Health Compliance Monitoring Form.
This form is essential in identifying any health conditions or disabilities that may require reasonable adjustments. It also emphasises the importance of honest disclosure and reassures applicants about the confidentiality of their medical information.
The form is completed by the applicant and sets the foundation for further occupational health assessments if there is a potential for the applicant to require adjustments to the programme.
3.2 Post-Offer Initial Screening
Most individuals will utilise their employer’s Occupational Health services following a conditional offer. Applicants are required to undergo a detailed occupational health screening conducted by an accredited provider. (An accredited Occupational Health provider means a provider certified under the SEQOHS accreditation scheme).
This screening process includes a comprehensive general health assessment, a review of declared conditions or disabilities, and an immunisation status check.
Additionally, students undergo screening for Exposure Prone Procedures (EPPs) where relevant, to ensure their suitability for high-risk healthcare environments. (Appendix 1)
Outreach Rescue use the services of “Insight Health Screening Ltd“. However, it is recognised that our students live and work in a geographically dispersed manner, making our choice of provider less than convenient for some individuals. Therefore, Students are responsible for sourcing these checks through approved occupational health providers and providing Outreach Rescue with “Full Permission” to access and query the report directly with the provider. A list of suitable providers is maintained on the SEQOHS website.
4. Clearance Outcomes
The outcomes of the health screening are categorised into three main decisions:
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Fit to Practice Without Adjustments: The applicant proceeds with an unconditional offer.
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Fit to Practice With Adjustments: Recommendations for reasonable adjustments are outlined and implemented in collaboration with the Occupational Health Provider, Programme Lead, the student, the practice placement provider and the Outreach Clinical Manager.
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Not Fit to Practice: The applicant is informed with detailed reasoning and provided with options to appeal the decision.
5. Implementation of Adjustments
Adjustments are carefully planned in collaboration with the Occupational Health Provider, Programme Lead, the student, the practice placement provider and the Outreach Clinical Manager.
Examples of adjustments include modifications to work environments or equipment, flexible schedules, and additional supervision during practice placements.
These adjustments are communicated to all relevant stakeholders, including Practice Placement Educators, while maintaining strict confidentiality to safeguard the student’s privacy.
6. Ongoing Monitoring and Support
Students’ adjustments are regularly reviewed to ensure they remain effective and relevant. Mechanisms are in place for students to request reassessment if their circumstances change.
The Outreach Clinical Manager maintains regular communication with placement providers to address any emerging needs or challenges.
7. Additional Considerations
Immunisation and clearance for Exposure Prone Procedures (EPPs) are critical for ensuring the safety of both students and patients.
This includes mandatory screening for blood-borne viruses, as specified in NHS guidance, to ensure students are fit to engage in direct patient care.
These requirements are particularly crucial for frontline ambulance and hospital placements.
Reasonable adjustments are implemented in compliance with the Equality Act 2010, ensuring that students with disabilities or health conditions have equitable opportunities.
Employers and placement providers are encouraged to utilise resources such as the Access to Work Scheme to support these adjustments.
Confidentiality is a cornerstone of the process. All health information is securely stored, separate from personnel files, and managed in compliance with GDPR. This ensures the privacy of students is respected throughout their time in the programme.
Appendix 1: Occupational Health Checks for Paramedic Students
The following checks and immunisations are required, and Outreach Rescue must receive evidence from an accredited Occupational Health provider prior to the applicant receiving an unconditional offer.
1. General Health Assessment
- Ensures physical and mental fitness to practice
- Evaluates declared conditions for potential adjustments.
2. Immunisations
- Hepatitis B: Mandatory for protection against blood-borne pathogens.
- Tuberculosis (TB): Screening required to prevent transmission in healthcare settings.
- Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR): Ensures immunity to common infectious diseases.
- COVID-19: Vaccination in line with NHS policy for healthcare workers.
- Varicella (Chickenpox): Proof of immunity or vaccination required.
- Influenza: Strongly recommended annually for healthcare workers.
3. Exposure Prone Procedures (EPPs) Clearance.
Screening for:
- HIV,
- Hepatitis B,
- Hepatitis C
Establishments Requiring These Checks
Frontline ambulance services and hospitals require these checks to protect both students and the public.
Organisations such as the NHS, private ambulance services, and healthcare trusts mandate these requirements to minimise infection risks, ensure the safety of vulnerable patients, and comply with public health regulations.
The standards are also aligned with the Department of Health and Social Care’s guidance on healthcare worker immunisations.