Ive just finished college and Im going to start applying for jobs. Everyone I know that works in the field Im going into said they had to do a medical prior to getting there jobs, during with time they had to tell state what medication they are taking. I know its not a big deal taking antidepressants, but there is still a bit of a stigma around them, Im afraid I may be turned down for jobs if I tell 'em Im taking pills? Do I have to tell them?
2006-11-16 03:09:18 · 34 answers · asked by Sadbh 3 in Health ➔ Mental Health
I a chemist (Im not kidding)...So no heavy machinary, and they dont effect my ability to work.
2006-11-16 03:22:35 · update #1
I'm majoring in Health Information Technology(Med Records) You do not have to tell your employer about the medication you are taking. For your own personal reasons you choose not to. I don't blame you, because there is very much a stereotype around antidepressants and people who take them.
There is no way anyone can have public access to your medical records besides them being subpoenaed in court. That's the same as people with AIDS, you know they do not tell employers they have that disease because of fear.
The law is on your side, if you choose not to disclose information because of possible discrimination.
2006-11-16 10:24:37 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 2⤊ 0⤋
No you don't. When you take a pre-employment physical HIPPA laws prevent Dr.'s from reveling certain medical information.
2006-11-16 03:19:29 · answer #2 · answered by U can't b serious 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
The only reason I'd tell my employer anything about my medication is because I am in a safety critical job, and if anything happened I'd be tested, and if anything I took is disallowed, I'd lose my job for not telling them so they can make their decision on my duties.
As a chemist you obviously don't have these concerns, so I'd say if you want to keep it to yourself you should do so. As long as there is no drugs and alcohol at work policy where you work, which would have guidelines about this.
2006-11-16 04:17:05 · answer #3 · answered by ashypoo 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Clinically recognised depression is now classed as a disability which means that an employer cannot turn you down on the basis of your illness.
Its also much better to be honest from the outset, complete any forms that they ask you to with the truth - but its very rare for company's to ask for medicals, often its for very senior people of physical roles. If you weren't honest and then they found out that you had lied, then you could lose your job. So be up front about it, make it clear that it hasn't affected your college work and wont have an impact on you as an employee as it is under control. They will respect your honesty.
2006-11-16 03:13:23 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 2⤊ 0⤋
You may find that it's a good idea to tell them. They need to know this kind of thing so that they have a better understanding of their employees. They can't not hire you because you have depression, that's against the law. If they know about it they may be more understanding if you have a lapse into depression which i'm sure you know can happen even when your medication is working or you.
2006-11-16 03:26:59 · answer #5 · answered by merihell75 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Absolutely not! as long as you are honest with the medical facility that does your physical (they will probably do a drug panel, and if you don't tell them and they show up on your system, then your sure not to get the job) but the medical facility is the only one you should tell...the employer should never know ( don't need to know).......the only information the employer is looking for is to see if your in good health and not doing drugs. I work in human resources and have never been told about anybody taking anti-depression medication. Good luck in your new search!! best wishes....
2006-11-16 03:14:41 · answer #6 · answered by Shelly B 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Angelkake is correct. It is illegal for an employer to ask you what medications you are taking. I don't know what field you are going into, or what type of medical exam that your friends are saying is required, but employers are not allowed to do this, as it could result in discrimination. I have heard of people who work closely with the elderly or those with compromised immune systems getting medical tests, but even this is limited to infectious diseases, and no disclosure of medication is necessary.
2006-11-16 03:17:44 · answer #7 · answered by julz 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I think employers are more interested in if you are on heart medication etc. They like to know if you are physicaly fit to do the job. I don't believe you have to give info. about your mental health and if you did I am afraid they may look down on that. It seems like the stigma wouldn't be there because so many people are takeing some kind of meds.
If your going into psychology they may want this information but I think they also give you some kind of assesment to make sure that you are stable. Alot of psychologist have issues of their own and seek treatment, while working in the field.
I wouldn't worry about it too much because if you didn't get a job based on the fact that you take anti-depressents I would think it would be discrimination.
I think the best thing you could do is talk to some of your professors that you have had. I bet they would know for sure.
2006-11-16 03:26:55 · answer #8 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
None of their business, unless potential danger involving machines and vehicles. Try checking with your doctor. But i would also suggest - if possible get off anti-depressents and try St John's wort. But again check this out with your doctor - at least these tablets are a lot more natural and you don't need a prescription.
2006-11-16 03:19:46 · answer #9 · answered by I'm Sparticus 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
No you do not have to tell your employer what medications you take. That is your private personal info.
2006-11-16 03:10:54 · answer #10 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋