BDMS Occupational Health


ACOEM ENVIRONMENTAL MEDICINE COMPETENCIES

The physician has the knowledge and skills necessary to recognize potential chemical, physical, and biological environmental causes of health concern to the individual as well as to community health. Environmental issues most often include air, water, or ground contamination by natural or artificial pollutants. The physician has knowledge of the health effects of the broad physical and social environment, which includes housing, urban development, land-use and transportation, industry, and agriculture.

1.  Identify sources and routes of environmental exposure and recommend methods of reducing environmental health risks.

  • Identify and manage population exposure to environmental toxins (e.g., heavy metals, solvents, pesticides, asbestos, silica, carbon monoxide, hydrogen sulfide, dioxin, PCBs).
  • Identify and manage concerns about the health effects of human exposure to contaminated water, sewage, and human waste. 
  • Explain outdoor air pollution sources and health effects.
  • Explain the causes, health effects, and controls for indoor air pollution, including “sick building syndrome” and “building-related illness.”
  • Explain water pollution sources and health effects.
  • Explain health risks associated with exposure to hazardous waste.
  • Explain the risks associated with household chemicals.
  • Explain and control the health risks associated with exposure to radon and ultraviolet radiation.
  • Explain the psychological effects associated with acute or chronic exposure to actual or perceived environmental hazards.

2. Advise individuals and communities about the reproductive implications of environmental exposure.

3. Manage health effects associated with air, water, or ground contamination by natural or artificial pollutants.

4. Recommend, interpret and explain the results of environmental monitoring.

When you have completed all of the Case Studies above, please complete this assessment to record your efforts. You must complete all case studies to successfully complete the Environmental Medicine Module.