O-300 a Qualitative Analysis of the Contribution and Potential of University Occupational Medicine Departments to Sustainable Work Through Pandemic Response and Preparedness

Introduction It has been a challenge for university medicine in Germany to provide rapid and evidence-based knowledge for the management of the COVID-19 pandemic. University occupational medicine departments (OMDs) have a responsibility to contribute to the development of sustainable working environments, including measures for pandemic response and preparedness. This study aims to (1) summarize the spectrum of pandemic-related activities of the 30 OMDs in Germany and (2) derive their potential for the promotion of sustainable work through pandemic management. Methods Between May and August 2023, we conducted 13 interviews with 14 experts from 12 OMDs who were primarily responsible for pandemic management within and outside their institutions. Data analysis follows a rapid thematic approach. Ethical approval was granted in March 2023. Results Depending on financial, human, technological and organisational resources, university OMDs provided a range of pandemic-related occupational safety and health (OSH) services for institutions and companies, research, teaching, professional training and networking activities. We identified political, organizational and interpersonal barriers and facilitators that influence the implementation of OSH competence in the development of an adaptable and sustainable concept for pandemic management. Discussion Close access to other clinical disciplines and participatory applied research with the world of work is an as yet underrepresented potential for university OMDs to contribute to an evidence-based transdisciplinary approach to promoting sustainable work through pandemic response and preparedness. Conclusion The visibility and recognition of existing and new OSH services has increased during the pandemic and should be more firmly established to strengthen sustainable work environments, especially in challenging circumstances. “This publication was partially funded by the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) Network of University Medicine 2.0: “NUM 2.0”, Grant No. 01KX2121, Project: Preparedness and Pandemic Response in Germany (work package 9).”