Active Care in Action - Employee Assistance Programme

This is a live Case which occurred within the Health Assured Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) with Active Care - providing effective early intervention in respect of Stress and Mental Health conditions.

The details

The History

Mary had been absent with "Chronic Fatigue Syndrome" for 22 weeks (she was unable to drive, as she had fallen asleep at the wheel) .

The Health Assured Clinical team within the Employee Assistance Programme engaged with Mary, who stated that she missed work, and felt depressed because she had always been so active.

A Diabetes clinic had confirmed that all the tests were normal and had suggested that she had Depression. Mary was sure that this was not the case.

The Occupational Health Nurse (also a Counselling Supervisor) arranged a referral to an Occupational Health Physician.:

Mary, who is of an athletic build and early 30's would not be an obvious candidate for Sleep Apnoea. However, this is precisely what our Physician diagnosed during the consultation. A referral was made to a Sleep Clinic.

The Result

Mary attended the clinic and the diagnosis was confirmed. A CPAP mask was prescribed, and Mary returned to work 1 week after the mask was fitted. Mary is now back to full productivity, and more importantly feels well and motivated.

The employer has effectively supported a key member of staff.  Mary feels supported, valued and engaged with her employer.

Without the early intervention from Occupational Health, it is likely that this case would have ended with dismissal on the grounds of medical capability.  This case study, further demonstrates the value of a robust Occupational Health and Employee Assistance Programme service working more effectively as an integrated proposition.