Today, pre-employment health check-ups have become an essential step that every employee should pay close attention to, no less important than the knowledge, experience, and capabilities of a job applicant. In addition to detecting communicable diseases or health issues that could adversely affect physical well-being and potentially hinder work performance, a health check-up also serves as crucial preparation for starting a new role efficiently and smoothly. Moreover, it helps to foster long-term confidence between employees and their new organizations.
The significance of pre-employment health check-ups can be viewed from the perspectives of both employees and organizations, as outlined below.
For employees, undergoing a pre-employment health check-up is important for several reasons:
Annual health check-ups help in the prevention and early detection of abnormalities and the identification of trends toward various diseases. Physicians gather medical histories to understand factors that may impact health, thereby providing insight into an individual's overall physical well-being.
Health check-ups allow for monitoring of any existing medical conditions and assessment of the individual's current health status. Physicians can develop appropriate healthcare plans, and employees can gain guidance on how to maintain their health effectively in daily life.
Annual health check-ups also form the basis for long-term health management, helping individuals to adjust their lifestyles and avoid risk factors that could lead to future health issues.
Health check-ups are equally important from the organizational perspective:
Organizations can select candidates who are physically fit for their roles, ensuring that incoming employees are healthy and capable of performing their duties without health-related obstacles.
Health screenings for communicable diseases help to prevent potential health risks to other staff members, limit the spread of infections, and maintain a safe and healthy working environment.
Pre-employment health check-ups help prevent workplace accidents, illnesses, or health impacts, thus fostering a safer and more hygienic working environment.
Before commencing work, the areas typically assessed in a health check-up, similar for both males and females, may vary slightly depending on the company, but generally include the following:
This initial step involves a physician examining the body and asking about family medical history, medication use, and daily lifestyle behaviors that may affect health. Basic assessments include vital signs, body mass index (BMI), and blood pressure measurements.
A chest X-ray is performed to detect abnormalities in the lungs, heart, major blood vessels, ribs, spine, and clavicles. It primarily focuses on screening for tuberculosis, a communicable disease spread through respiratory droplets.
This blood test assesses the components of blood—red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets—as well as hemoglobin concentration. It can help detect conditions such as anemia or immune system disorders.
Urine tests screen for drug use, including methamphetamine and amphetamine, and also help detect urinary tract infections, kidney disease, and diabetes.
Special emphasis is placed on screening for Hepatitis B virus (HBsAg), which can be transmitted through blood and personal items such as razors, nail clippers, and toothbrushes. In some cases, the virus can also be transmitted through saliva.
Vision assessments evaluate the functionality of both eyes, detect any visual impairments, measure visual acuity, test for color blindness, and inspect the appearance of the sclera and cornea.
An additional test for female employees, as some may be unaware of an existing pregnancy. Early detection allows for appropriate health management to ensure a safe working environment.
Ramkhamhaeng Hospital offers a comprehensive range of health check-up programs tailored to meet the needs of the new generation, helping to ensure appropriate health management before embarking on a new career journey.
