[Human resources and activities in the occupational medicine service of Poland in 2003]

Abstract

Background: The presented paper shows the most essential data concerning the state of human resources and activities of occupational medicine services in Poland in 2003.

Materials and methods: The reports (around 10 000) obtained from primary occupational medicine service units and regional occupational medicine centers (forms: MZ-35A and MZ-35) are the source of information about human resources and occupational medicine services activities.

Results: A majority of regional centers, due to their restructuring, have approached the legal and organizational model described in the Occupational Medicine Service Act. The assessment of activities of primary occupational medicine centres units, performed by regional occupational medicine centers, indicates the need for constant training of physicians authorized to perform prophylactic examinations of employees.

Conclusions: The year 2003 did not witness any new significant changes in the structure of occupational medicine service. One can speak rather about the continuation of trends observed in previous years.