Christner Appointed Medical Director of Occupational Health Services

Michael R. Christner, MD, an emergency medicine physician with North Oaks Medical Center for 15 years, has been named medical director of North Oaks Occupational Health Services.

In this role, Christner will provide policy, program, staff training and medical standards oversight for the occupational medicine service line, which specializes in customizing streamlined health care and health education programs for area employers.

“As an emergency medicine physician, I find it gratifying to help people when they need it most. We have a very short window of time to get to the bottom of what is going on with each emergent patient. As an occupational medicine physician, I will strive to bring that same level of care to the workplace by helping employers keep their workforce healthy, productive and safe,” Christner explains.

Certified by and a diplomate of the American Board of Emergency Medicine, Christner also brings to his new role a combined 12 years of prior experience gained in the Greater New Orleans Area in the specialties of occupational health and wellness, primary and wound care.

“We believe Dr. Christner’s extensive experience and clinical expertise will be assets to any company or employer group looking to maintain the health of its workforce,” affirms Michael Watkins, chief operating officer of North Oaks Health System. “He fully understands and exemplifies North Oaks Occupational Health Services’ philosophy of collaboration with employers to return employees to work in the safest and most timely manner possible.”

Christner has participated on numerous North Oaks medical staff committees during his tenure. Most notably, he has served on the Bylaws and Credentials, and Electronic Health Record Physician Development Committees. He also has championed the health system’s Epic electronic health record as a physician trainer and superuser.

Christner completed both an internship and residency through Louisiana State University’s emergency medicine program at the former Earl K. Long Memorial Hospital in Baton Rouge. He earned his medical degree through Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center in New Orleans.=

With clinic locations in Hammond and Walker, North Oaks Occupational Health Services offers Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) and non-DOTD physical examinations and drug testing, workers’ compensation care, diagnostic services, worksite wellness screenings, industrial rehabilitation and on-site services for employers.

The Hammond clinic is located at 1900 South Morrison Boulevard, and Livingston Parish services can be accessed at 28050 Walker South Road, Suite L.

To learn more about North Oaks Occupational Health Services, call (985) 230-5726.