KINNECT, a leading provider of occupational health and medical services, has determined that it cannot facilitate medical assessments specifically for the purpose of PFAS (Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) Health Surveillance. However, KINNECT can support comprehensive fitness for work screening, offering broad medical assessments designed to detect changes in workers' health over time.

Currently, there is limited to no scientific evidence linking PFAS exposure to human disease or other clinically significant harm. This absence of definitive proof makes it challenging to develop a valid screening test within a health surveillance setting that can accurately identify health changes attributable to PFAS exposure. Implementing such a program may lead to numerous 'false positives,' where individuals exhibit changes in health status due to unknown causes. These cases, driven by a duty of care, would require further review, potentially leading to unnecessary stress and medical examinations for workers. The research on PFAS exposure and its health effects is still evolving, with many studies yielding inconsistent or inconclusive results. This inconsistency makes it challenging to base a health screening program on a solid foundation of scientific evidence, leading to potential misinterpretation of screening outcomes and inappropriate health interventions.
​

Absence of Specific and Sensitive Tests: There are no established tests with the required sensitivity and specificity to distinguish between normal health and ill health resulting from PFAS exposure. This lack of clear diagnostic criteria means that it is not feasible to set a definitive cutoff point for identifying health impacts caused by PFAS. As a result, any health surveillance program focusing on PFAS would likely be unreliable and could produce ambiguous results, complicating the interpretation of health changes.
​

Influence of Environmental and Genetic Factors: Numerous environmental and genetic factors can cause changes in health that may mimic or suggest PFAS-related impacts. Given this complexity, it is difficult to attribute health changes specifically to PFAS exposure. The interplay of various factors can obscure the direct effects, if any, of PFAS on health, further complicating the establishment of a reliable health surveillance program targeting PFAS.
​

Even if health impacts from PFAS exposure were identified, there are no widely accepted treatment protocols specifically for PFAS-related health issues. This means that even if screening identified potential problems, healthcare providers might not have the necessary guidance to effectively manage these conditions, limiting the practical benefits of such screening programs.

PFAS exposure levels can vary widely among individuals based on numerous factors, including geographic location, occupation, and lifestyle choices. This variability makes it difficult to standardise screening procedures and interpret results consistently. Without a clear understanding of what constitutes a harmful level of PFAS exposure, screening programs may struggle to provide meaningful and actionable information.

There are regulatory and ethical considerations in implementing a health surveillance program without strong scientific backing. Screening for PFAS without clear evidence of harm could lead to legal and ethical issues, particularly if workers are subjected to unnecessary medical procedures or if their employment is affected by the results of such screenings.

Despite the limitations in conducting PFAS-specific health surveillance, KINNECT is well-equipped to support comprehensive fitness for work screening. This approach involves broad medical assessments that can detect changes in workers' health over time, regardless of the underlying cause. By focusing on overall health and fitness for work, KINNECT can help identify potential health issues early, ensuring that workers receive the necessary care and support.
​

KINNECT’s comprehensive health screening process is designed to provide a holistic overview of an employee's health. This type of screening includes a variety of medical tests and assessments that evaluate the overall medical and physical health of workers. These screenings can identify a wide range of health issues, from common conditions like hypertension and diabetes to more specific occupational health concerns.
​

The effectiveness of KINNECT's approach lies in the periodic nature of these comprehensive health screenings. By regularly monitoring employees’ health, KINNECT can track changes over time. This ongoing assessment allows for the early detection of health issues, enabling prompt intervention. Periodic health screenings serve as a proactive measure, identifying potential problems before they become severe and ensuring that workers maintain optimal health and fitness for their roles.
​

When a comprehensive health screening identifies a change in an employee's health status, it triggers further investigation. This means that any detected anomalies or concerns are not overlooked but are instead thoroughly examined. KINNECT works closely with the employee’s relevant treating practitioners and specialists to ensure a coordinated and effective response. This collaborative approach ensures that any health changes are appropriately managed, leveraging the expertise of medical professionals to provide the best possible care.
​

The broad approach to health screening has several advantages. It allows KINNECT to address a wide array of health concerns, not just those potentially linked to PFAS exposure. This inclusivity ensures that all employees benefit from comprehensive health monitoring, promoting a healthier workforce overall. Additionally, by focusing on general health and fitness for work, KINNECT avoids the pitfalls of false positives and the associated anxiety and stigma that can result from targeted screenings with limited scientific backing.