For many employees, being told they’re being referred to occupational health is unsettling. Managers often aren’t sure what to expect either. The process is simpler than most people think, and it’s designed to be fair, confidential and useful to everyone involved.
Employee preparing for an assessment? Visit the employee portal . Manager or HR looking to refer someone? Visit the employer portal .
Here’s how a video assessment with Dr Donati Occupational Health works, step by step.
1. The assessment is booked online
The manager or HR representative chooses a date and time through our online portal. There are no contracts or setup fees. Visit the employer portal to get started.
Before booking, we ask that you have already discussed the referral with the employee and that they have agreed to it. This keeps the process transparent from the beginning.
2. The manager completes a referral form
The referring manager or HR representative receives a short online form. It asks about the workplace concerns, the employee’s absence history, and any specific questions they would like the doctor to answer. This gives the doctor the context needed for a focused assessment, so the appointment can concentrate on what matters.
3. The employee gives their consent
The employee receives their appointment details along with a digital consent form. The employee portal explains what to expect and how the process works.
Nothing happens in the consultation until the employee understands and agrees, which keeps the process transparent and in line with GDPR and GMC guidance.
4. The clinical assessment
A GMC-registered occupational health physician carries out the assessment by video, in a secure and confidential setting. The doctor looks at the employee’s fitness for work, any underlying health conditions, and how these might affect them at work.
It’s a conversation, not a test, and the employee has the chance to explain things in their own words.
5. The report is written
The doctor writes a clear, jargon-free report covering their clinical findings, fitness for work, and any recommended reasonable adjustments. Reports are normally issued within 48 hours. If the employee asks to see the report before it’s released, they can review it first.
6. The employer receives guidance they can act on
HR and management receive the finished report, with practical guidance to support sickness absence management or return-to-work planning. It helps employers make informed, consistent decisions with confidence.
A few tips for employees
Find a quiet, private space where you won’t be interrupted, and check your camera and internet connection beforehand. It helps to have details of your role, and any questions you want to ask, ready. More guidance is on the employee portal .
A few tips for managers
Be as specific as you can on the referral form. Clear questions lead to clearer answers. Once you have the report, make time to talk it through with the employee, because the report is the start of the conversation, not the end of it. Everything you need to make a referral is on the employer portal .
Ready to take the next step?
Employers can refer an employee or book an assessment . Employees can find everything they need on the employee portal .
