Oil palm estates and associated industries employ a fair proportion of workers. Good medical care benefits both the employers and the employees. The pattern of illness is not very different from that found in general practice. However, certain environmental factors, the nature of occupation and the water supply can influence the increased incidence of certain diseases. Upper respiratory tract infection, acute gastroenteritis, contact dermatitis (eczemas & rashes) eye, and ear diseases, injuries and musculoskeletal diseases are the commonest causes of morbidity. The resident doctor, who has a good knowledge of the environment of his patients is in the best position to practise preventive medicine or early intervention, thereby reducing illnesses and improving productivity of the workers.