PRIME will seek to understand the physical and mental requirements and demands of a patient that is nearing recovery in order to assign an appropriate return to work date.  Specifically, our team would like to gain understanding of what level of musculoskeletal strength and cardiopulmonary endurance are needed as well as how much concentration, memory and stress are related to the returning patient’s role.  The patient should be able to clearly describe and list the tasks performed while on duty.  PRIME physician’s also have the option to contact the employer as many workplaces have an occupational medicine manager, a human resources office or an industrial hygiene section.  Any of these departments should be able to provide the physician with job qualification summaries. 

Further,  PRIME will need information regarding potential hazardous exposures (chemical, biological, radiation, extreme heat or cold) and the requirements for the use of personal protective equipment. 

PRIME Occupational Physicians will request specific tasks regarding distances and heights (i.e., walking, reaching, climbing), weights (i.e., lifting, carrying, pushing), body positions and ergonomics, and duration of tasks.