The company doctor (Betriebsarzt) is an occupationally qualified physician who advises the employer on all health protection matters. Appointment is legally required according to §2 ASiG.
Legal Basis
According to the Occupational Safety Act (ASiG), employers must appoint company doctors. These must possess occupational medicine expertise.
Qualification
- Medical license
- Occupational medicine expertise:
- Specialist in occupational medicine, or
- Additional designation in occupational medicine
Tasks of Company Doctor
Consulting:
- Occupational medical assessment
- Health promotion
- Reintegration
Examinations:
- Occupational medical prevention
- Fitness examinations
- Pre-employment examinations
Participation in Risk Assessment:
- Health aspects
- Psychological stress
- Measure recommendations
Confidentiality
The company doctor is subject to medical confidentiality:
- No disclosure of diagnoses to employer
- Only communication of fitness (yes/no/conditional)
- Trust of employees
Company Doctor and Mental Health
In psychological risk assessment:
- Advice during planning
- Interpretation of results
- Recommendation of measures
- Individual counseling of affected individuals