PMOs & PAGOs: The Differences

08 April 2025

PMOs and PAGOs are both medical examinations for employees. Both examinations help promote a healthy and safe work environment as well as the sustainable employability of the workforce. But what exactly are the differences between these examinations?

The main difference is that a PAGO (periodic occupational health medical examination) is required by law and focuses specifically on work-related health risks, while a PMO (preventive medical examination) takes a broader view, including aspects of general health and lifestyle.

The following contains a breakdown of the exact differences between these examinations.

1. Content and objectives

PAGO: the primary objectives are the prevention of damage to employee health and the early identification of work-related health risks.

The PAGO examines whether:

certain occupational health risks have an adverse effect on health;
the measures taken to manage those risks are still effective;
the employer needs to adapt the RI&E and/or the measures in the action plan

PMO: looks beyond occupational health risks. In addition to the physical health and mental well-being of employees, it maps out their lifestyle habits and examines whether they are 'fit for the job'; are they doing what is best suited to them? How can they stay employable? It is a measurement tool that provides employers and their employees with insight into current employability levels and identifies modifiable risk factors for the future health of employees.

At HumanCapitalCare, we believe in an integrated approach to vitality and health, which is why a PMO is never the sole focus: it is part of a broader vitality programme.

2. Employer obligations

PAGO: according to the Working Conditions Act, every employer is obliged to periodically offer a PAGO to its employees.

PMO: offering a PMO is not required by law, but is strongly recommended. PMOs promote a preventive health policy and contribute to the sustainable employability of employees.

In other words, employers are obliged to offer a PAGO, and can opt to combine it with a PMO. Read the article here on why offering a PMO to their employees is a worthwhile investment for employers.

3. Engagement and implementation

PAGO: usually carried out by an occupational physician with the aim of assessing the impact of specific occupational health risks on employee health.

PMO: in addition to the occupational physician, the employer and the works council (or employee representative body) are often involved in preparing the examination. They work together to determine the content and, based on the results at the group level, the actions to be taken within the organisation.

Interested or have any questions?

Want to work on improving the health, vitality and employability of your employees? Or do you have any questions about PMOs? We are happy to help. Please get in touch with your regular contact at HumanCapitalCare and find out what we can do for your organisation.