A New Era in Occupational Health: The SOM-COHPA Merger
Explore the impact of SOM and COHPA’s merger on occupational health, setting new standards for worker care.
The Society of Occupational Medicine (SOM) and the Commercial Occupational Health Providers Association (COHPA) have embarked on a strategic partnership that promises to reshape the landscape of occupational health in the UK. SOM, with its rich history and dedication to multidisciplinary collaboration, and COHPA, known for advocating high standards and service accessibility, are combining to form a powerful collective voice for the industry.
This collaboration is set to merge COHPA into SOM, with a shared goal of ensuring access to occupational health for every employee in the UK. All COHPA members will be welcomed as Corporate Supporters of SOM, marking a significant step towards a unified voice in occupational health advocacy.
The merger promises to streamline resources, enhance advocacy efforts, and foster innovation in service delivery. By joining forces, SOM and COHPA aim to ensure that every employee in the UK has access to quality occupational health services, addressing the increasing number of employees off work due to ill health.
Anna Jones, a consultant to SOM and former COHPA association manager, views the alliance as an opportunity to fortify the industry and drive significant change. For occupational health professionals seeking employment and companies in search of qualified experts, the SOM-COHPA merger opens doors to a future rich with possibilities for innovation and growth in the field.
SOM’s Chief Executive, Nick Pahl, expressed satisfaction with the merger, highlighting the benefits of a strengthened commercial sector voice and cost savings as COHPA members transition to SOM corporate supporters without the need to renew memberships.
What benefits do Corporate Supporters of SOM get?
Corporate Supporters of SOM demonstrate a commitment to workplace health and well-being. They are entitled to use the SOM Corporate Supporter logo, which links to the ‘Find an OH provider service’ on the SOM website, increasing their visibility.
These supporters are featured on the SOM website and in the e-newsletter distributed to SOM members. Regular meetings with commercial providers create networking opportunities and the chance to build relationships with top occupational health providers in the UK. They also play a role in shaping policy and engaging in public affairs, contributing to events like the annual Occupational Health Awareness Week.
Corporate Supporters receive updates on workplace health from the SOM’s CEO. They benefit from a free job advert in SOM’s quarterly magazine to recruit experienced occupational health staff, with significant discounts on subsequent adverts.
Additionally, access to SOM’s CV Library offers a connection to OH Professionals seeking opportunities. Supporters are encouraged to engage with special interest groups that focus on various topics, including marketing, hand-arm vibration syndrome (HAVS), musculoskeletal (MSK) disorders, and mental health. A monthly e-newsletter keeps all supporters informed of the latest developments in occupational health.
Embracing the Future of Occupational Health
The partnership between SOM and COHPA is set to streamline the occupational health sector, offering new career paths for professionals, and expanding the resources available to companies. This collaboration aims to standardize policies, improve service quality, and strengthen the collective voice on important health issues.
With a commitment to making occupational health services accessible to all UK employees, the merger encourages occupational health professionals and businesses to stay informed and engaged with industry progress. Looking ahead, this union underscores the importance of workplace health and the ongoing efforts to enhance employee well-being.
Join us in supporting the advancement of occupational health standards and practices. Visit www.ohtalentsolutions.co.uk for more insights and services and share this post to help spread the word about the importance of accessible occupational health for every employee in the UK.
