Peers review your FMLA certification. absent four days.

I have worked with the employer for 3 1/2 years without attendance or performance issues. I had some personal problems and was overwhelmed and stressed. I called in to my manager, who is also the benefits manager, explaining I was having some personal family problems. I said I would be off for two days. The next morning my manger called and asked me to provide documentation as to why I was out. I did not want to go into detail about my personal issues so I went to visit My primary care physician. My doctor was aware of my family circumstances and wrote a doctor's excuse for the remainder of the week. I provided the doctor's excuse to my manager. My manager called me on the 3rd day (thursday) and said I would need to complete FMLA paperwork detailing the reason for my absence. I was out for a total of four days. Although FMLA is confidential, the paperwork is reviewed by my peers and direct supervisor. I feel like it was an invasion of my privacy. Is this legal?

1 answer  |  asked Sep 22, 2004 10:21 AM [EST]  |  applies to Texas

Answers (1)

Margaret A. Harris
verifying health condition

The employer has the right to verify your (and your doctor's) statement that you have a "serious health condition." But, you still have a right of privacy. The employer should be designating a physician to review the information. There's more information about the Family & Medical Leave Act under the section called "family/medical leave" at www.workplacefairness.org.
Or, call and make an appointment.

posted by Margaret A. Harris  |  Sep 22, 2004 10:42 AM [EST]

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