Could I lose my job for seeking drug counseling when my ins. that is paying is through my work?

Question

I'm afraid that my workplace will find out from the insurance co.

Answer 1

That is tough. You certainly need to get help.

However, I believe there have been cases where companies have fired or penalized people based on information they received from insurance companies. I think I remember one case of smokers getting fired. I think you should (a) read your insurance policy and company handbook carefully and see if there is any provision for sharing information and (b) research if there have been cases and how the law sided.

Answer 2

In most cases you cannot be fired for seeking to remedy a health/mental health issue that may affect your work. That is a form of discrimination and could be grounds for a suit (although I hate it that everyone wants to sue everyone).

However, if you work for a company that has an "at will" clause, meaning that when you were hired you were informed about their policy stating that they can fire any employee at will for any or no reason, then it's possible.

As long as you are trying to maintain a high standard of work (not to mention a more stable and enjoyable life) then really they wouldn't have the right to know what your business is outside of the workplace. Our health information (meaning insurance payments etc.) is protected under the HIPPA privacy act.

Answer 3

Unless you have signed an employment contract, your employer can pretty much do whatever they want. If your job is one that is critical to the health and well-being of others, most companies will place you with a pre-ceptor that will monitor your work. The Americans with Disabilities Act may provide you some guidance.

Even though it seems that keeping your job is the most important thing, you may be missing the big picture.
Getting clean and sober is the most important job you have right now. If you have an addiction, it is only a matter of time until you lose your job to the disease.
Trust the counseling and the details will work themselves out in the end.
Good Luck!

Answer 4

Your workplace shouldn't find out because that information is supposed to be kept confidential. You should, however, let your employer know that you are seeking counseling in the event of a random drug testing. If they find out that you are using illegal substances through the drug testing, you could lose your job (even though they are required to offer some sort of rehabilitation program. If you decline their offer, you will in most cases lose your job). It is better to be honest and let them know that you have fallen on your face, but are seeking counseling to better yourself.
Good luck.

Answer 5

Regardless of the very minor chance that your employer would find out that you are seeking the counseling AND would fire you:

The most important thing you can do is to get the help you need. What good is a job if you aren't there to work.

Best wishes ,

Michael

Answer 6

That info should be privileged and depending on the law where you are, they may not be able to fire you even if they did find out. As long as you are receiving treatment for a drug problem (where I live anyway) you cannot be fired. Granted if you quit then you are screwed but....

Answer 7

There are privacy laws in place to protect you. Your insurance company cannot disclose to your employer what your treatments are. Congratulations on seeking help, I wish you well.

Answer 8

No. Any health care is priviledged information that only you and your health care team can see. Your employer has no access to your healthcare information, and your insurance company is required by law to keep all information confidential.

Answer 9

If you do then I'd say you have the right to sue not only your insurance company but also your employer

Answer 10

those places usually do very confidential work. ask them. and its way easier to lose your job because you are messed up at work. don't let this be an excuse. go.