I work at a not for profit hospital that has in its employeee handbook that it is against policy to take any form of medication while on the clock. I have medication that has set time intervals to be taken which would require me to take while I am working. Is this a legal to prohibit to take medication prescribed by my Doctor? It is necessary to take this medication but I am in fear of losing my job if it was found out that I am not compliance with company policy? I need a definitive answer please.
Thank you.
2006-10-15 21:46:35 · 15 answers · asked by Crimson_Lily 1 in Health ➔ Mental Health
It's definitely not healthy. If you have prescription meds, you have no choice but to take it. Look into whatever government section covers your workers there. You could find out about your rights. If you NEED your medication and you can't take them at your current job, it may be worth finding a new job. Your health is more important. Or, could you slip out to your car for a minute on your break and take your meds?
2006-10-16 01:49:39 · answer #1 · answered by fayra_elm 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If it is medication legally written by prescription by your doctor and is medically necessary, I don't see how it would affect your job. If, however, it is a type of pain or nerve medication as long as you take it exactly as prescribed, I don't see how they can disallow it. However, if you are overmedicating and were to get hurt on the job, more than likely your workman's comp wouldn't pay up. Plus the real likelyhood of getting fired. Get a statement from your doctor for the company to put on file. That should take care af any problems should they arise. Legally.
2006-10-15 21:58:26 · answer #2 · answered by poppyandbisquitsmama 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Moral dilema:
If there's no adverse side effects like falling asleep or you turn in to a patient killing psycho, then just take it and don't tell anyone.
If there are side effects then you have to go on sick leave and suffer the consequences and I would say that their policy is valid.
If you have a long term medical condition that affects your ability to do the job you were hired for, then you should be honest and own up ang get a job that suits you.
2006-10-15 21:57:59 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yes, it is legal ... and a really good idea if the meds are expired! Conventional wisdom of the past said "flush out dated meds down the toilet, the sewer is the safest place for outdated medications!" OOPS! Some of these meds can not be effectively filtered out at water treatment plants, and wound up in the water supplies of major cities! Current Conventional wisdom says to mix these expired medications in with used cat litter to make them "unpalatable" (would YOU eat something that came from the same bag as used cat litter?). No cat, no problem! Mix those expired medications in with food waste that is "past it's prime" (stinking and/or rotten!) or some other "unpalatable" substance. Do NOT keep outdated medications in your home, some medications degrade over time. Some just loose their strength, and eventually become useless. Some become TOXIC! Safety first, dump all expired medications!
2016-03-18 10:27:12 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
It depends on wether it hinders your ability to do your job. This is usually just a generic warning that most companies put in the manuals. If you are really that worried about it than speak to your boss. If you fear losing your job because of it than go to the bathroom with some water and do it in privacy. Sometimes it's none of any ones business what you take. As long as you don't endanger anyone around you(IE:operating heavy machines..Etc) than you shouldn't worry about it. Good luck and remember that your health is more important than a job.
2006-10-15 21:54:37 · answer #5 · answered by grease 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I would talk to a supervisor, human resources or a union representative if you have one. They cannot fire you for taking a prescribed medication. They can however not allow you to work if you are on medication that causes dizziness or drowsiness. If you take that type of medication and get hurt while you are at work, they could be held liable.
2006-10-15 21:58:32 · answer #6 · answered by tmills883 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I strongly suggest that you check with your doctor, your lawyer, with ADA - Americans for Disabilities Act - even though you are not disabled because they provide workplace coverage for people working who have to take medications in order for them to be able to work, and the Dept. of Labor in your state for this answer.
It is not a good idea to look for a definitive answer to such an important and legal question such as this here in this forum. This could cost you your health or your job if you take the advice of people here, regardless of their kind and good intentions.
2006-10-15 22:21:50 · answer #7 · answered by midnightlydy 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If the medication is like which induces sleep, or giddiness, something which will effect ur work, then the employeer will fear that his work will get hindered. But by and large if it is for few days, u can discuss with the administration and proceed taking it. No harm. They should also understand that it is for ur health and with those medications it will not effect the work environment.
2006-10-15 22:00:33 · answer #8 · answered by ketav 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
As long as you have a valid prescription from your doctor , then they can say absolutely NOTHING. It could a life threatning drug like high blood pressure, or seizure disorder. I would find an attorney and sue em. They CANNOT stop you as long as it is a legal drug, with a legal prescription period. THEY ARE WRONG.
Good luck
2006-10-16 00:13:18 · answer #9 · answered by Kay M 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I agree that you need to consult your boss, doctor, and union representative. Get all the documentation you can. If they fire you for taking a medication you need, you've got a nice law suit no your hands.
2006-10-16 00:50:17 · answer #10 · answered by apeystar 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋