In the pursuit of a healthier and safer working environment, the Occupational Health Referral Center, or Cerest, emerges as a beacon of specialized care for Brazilian workers. Beyond being a direct service provider, Cerest stands as a knowledge hub, capable of discerning whether the health issues faced by individuals are linked to their occupational activities.
What is Cerest?
Cerest is a specialized health care unit for workers, linked to the National Network of Comprehensive Healthcare for Workers (Renast). It has regional branches across Brazil, and its main objectives are:
- To provide specialized assistance to workers who suffer from diseases or injuries related to their work.
- To promote, protect, and restore the health of workers, preventing occupational hazards and improving their quality of life.
- To investigate the conditions of the work environment, using epidemiological data in conjunction with the sanitary surveillance.
Who can access Cerest?
Cerest is open to all workers, regardless of their employment status, occupation, or sector. This means that you can access Cerest even if you are:
- Workers referred by the Basic Health Network.
- Workers in private and public sectors
- Self-employed, informal, or temporary worker
- Unemployed worker who has a work-related disease from a previous job
How does Cerest attend?
It begins with a thorough health assessment conducted by a team of qualified professionals. This assessment considers various factors, including the nature of the disease or health issue presented by the individual. If the condition is determined to be work-related, the individual receives specialized treatment at the occupational health clinic within Cerest. On the other hand, if the health issue is not directly linked to the workplace, Cerest refers to other services within the Unified Health System (SUS), where individuals can receive the appropriate care and attention.
When seeking assistance at Cerest, individuals are required to provide specific documents that aid in the assessment process. These include a valid identification card, professional credentials, and any relevant medical examinations, reports, or certificates associated with the diagnosed disease or workplace accident. This comprehensive documentation helps Cerest professionals in understanding the individual’s health history and work-related circumstances, facilitating a more accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plan.
It’s important to note that Cerest, while playing a crucial role in occupational health, does have certain limitations. The center does not provide emergency care services, conduct pre-employment or post-employment examinations, offer periodic check-ups, or assess changes in job functions. Understanding these boundaries allows individuals to make informed decisions about the type of care they may require and ensures that Cerest continues to focus on its specialized role in addressing work-related health issues.