Chronic illnesses like diabetes, arthritis, and heart disease touch millions of lives, reshaping how people work, rest, and connect. Understanding these impacts is the first step to managing them, and early medical assessments can make all the difference.

At SOMA, we see the ripple effects daily—both on individuals and their employers. Living with a chronic condition often means constant adjustments. Take diabetes: fluctuating blood sugar can cause fatigue, making it hard to focus during a long shift. Arthritis might limit mobility, turning simple tasks like typing or lifting into struggles. Heart disease can sap energy, leaving someone breathless after a short walk.

These aren’t just physical challenges—they affect mental health, too, with stress and frustration piling on.

For employees, this translates to missed days, early departures, or lower output. A warehouse worker with rheumatoid arthritis might call in sick during flare-ups, while an office manager with hypertension could battle headaches that derail meetings. Over time, these disruptions hurt productivity and morale. Employers notice the gaps but often lack insight into the root cause.

That’s where SOMA comes in. Our medical assessments dig into how a chronic illness affects someone’s daily life and work capacity. We evaluate symptoms, review treatment plans, and assess functional abilities—think grip strength for arthritis or stamina for heart conditions. Our reports don’t just diagnose; they offer practical recommendations, like modified duties or therapy timelines.

Early intervention is critical. Catching a condition before it worsens can prevent disability claims or prolonged absences. For instance, an assessment might show a diabetic employee needs better glucose monitoring at work, avoiding crashes that lead to sick days. For the individual, this means a more manageable routine; for the employer, it’s a more consistent team member.

How Our Experts Help

Our team of specialists—ranging from endocrinologists to cardiologists—brings deep expertise to every assessment. We go beyond surface symptoms, using advanced diagnostics like blood panels or joint mobility tests to uncover the full scope of a condition.

Our experts analyze how chronic illnesses interact with lifestyle factors, like diet or stress, and workplace demands, such as physical exertion. This thorough approach ensures our reports are comprehensive and defensible, whether they’re used for treatment planning, insurance claims, or legal cases. We also provide timelines—will recovery take weeks or months?—giving everyone clarity to plan ahead. By partnering with us, you’re tapping into a resource that turns uncertainty into actionable solutions.

How Employers Can Help Employees Now

Employers play a vital role in supporting workers with chronic illnesses. Start by opening a dialogue—ask employees about their challenges. Offer flexible schedules, like shorter shifts or remote work, to ease physical strain during flare-ups. Provide access to wellness resources—think blood pressure monitors or ergonomic chairs—to help manage symptoms on-site.

Train managers to spot signs of struggle, like fatigue or frequent absences, and respond with empathy, not discipline. Finally, use our assessment reports to tailor accommodations, ensuring employees stay productive without risking their health. These steps build a supportive workplace that benefits everyone.

Chronic illness doesn’t have to be a productivity killer. With our expertise, people can take control of their health, and businesses can support them effectively—proving that proactive care benefits everyone in the long run.

Want to learn more about how SOMA Medical can assist you with IMEs? Get in touch with us today.