The Preventive Medical Examination, often abbreviated as PMO, is the modern successor to the PAGO (Periodic Occupational Health Examination). A Preventive Medical Examination (PMO) provides insight into the health and lifestyle of employees and helps identify any health risks associated with work. The emphasis here is on prevention, focusing on early response to risks and conditions. A PMO is more comprehensive than a PAGO and looks at both physical and mental health, lifestyle habits and may include any mandatory tests. In addition, the PMO is not just about the examination, but also any actions taken as a result of that examination to improve the employee’s health

Content of this article

The Preventive Medical Examination (PMO), the obligations for the employer

Every employer is required to offer its employees a Preventive Medical Examination (PMO), regardless of the number of employees. This should be done regularly so that employees have an up-to-date view of their health. Although “regularly” is not specified, experts generally recommend that it be performed once every three years. This keeps employees up-to-date on the development of their health and any health and absenteeism risks

The benefits for employers of a Preventive Medical Examination (PMO) include

• • Prevention of occupational diseases.

• • Promotion and monitoring of staff health.

• • Increasing employee performance and employability.

• • Lower absenteeism due to healthy and fit employees.

• • Cost savings through early detection of health risks.

Must the employee participate?

Although it is generally not required by law for employees to participate in a PMO, there are exceptions for certain jobs, such as those involving work with allergenic substances. Collective bargaining agreements may also require mandatory participation. For employees, it is important to realize that the PMO falls under medical confidentiality and must comply with the General Data Protection Regulation (AVG). This regulation states that data may only be used for the purpose for which it was collected

PMO (Preventive Medical Examination): A Detailed Look

A PMO consists of several components such as a questionnaire, biometric measurements (blood pressure, BMI, abdominal circumference) and a blood test. These tests provide a holistic picture of the employee’s health and identify potential health risks

The Business Case for PMO

The financial aspect of health management should not be underestimated. On average, Dutch people report sick once a year for a period of 6 days. A sick employee can cost a company between €250 and €400 per day. By regularly conducting a PMO, an employer significantly reduces the chance of long-term absenteeism

Health-as-priority

Now, more than ever, attention to employee health is crucial. Rising absenteeism and an aging workforce underscore the importance of sustainable employability. By investing in employee health, a company demonstrates its commitment, which contributes positively to its employer image

The PMO, a Legal Obligation:

In addition to the importance of employee health, health monitoring is also a legal obligation. Employers must ensure that work does not endanger employees’ health. In addition to PMO, there is also the Risk Inventory and Evaluation (RI&E) which helps in understanding risks

ENBOQ and PMO

Preventive Medical Examination (PMO) plays a critical role in detecting health risks early and ensuring the well-being of individuals. The addition of follow-up by ENBOQ brings an innovative approach focused on behavior change. Rather than proposing overwhelming transformations, ENBOQ emphasizes the importance of small, achievable steps. Our methodology encourages individuals to actively engage in their health, with every action, no matter how small, making a positive contribution to their overall well-being. This combination of early detection by PMO and ENBOQ’s structured follow-up lays a strong foundation for preventive health care and sustainable behavior change

An example of an interactive story

In “The Cholesterol Mystery,” employees led by Dr. Hartman take up the gauntlet and dive into the intriguing universe of cholesterol. They explore the chemical facets, separate fact from fiction between LDL and HDL, fathom the long-term impact and chart a path through diet and medication. Cracking interactive puzzles reveals the vital importance of healthy living and frequent checkups. This interactive story offers not only fun and challenge, but also essential insights into cholesterol management, empowering employees to make informed, healthy decisions in their daily lives

Conclusion on preventive medical examination (PMO)

A PMO is not only a legal requirement but offers numerous benefits to both employers and employees. Through regular health checks, risks can be identified early, leading to reduced absenteeism, better overall health and potential cost savings for businesses. The importance of a healthy lifestyle and vitality in the modern workplace cannot be overemphasized. Recent research shows that vital employees are on average 18% more productive and 27% less absent

It also sends a powerful message that you value the health and well-being of your employees. By giving them insight into their own health and providing concrete action items, they can actively work on their vitality