For them to keep on record as a coworker recently had a seizure. I take Ritalin for ADHD, and would rather not disclose this because my job performance has never been subpar, and don't want to open myself up to ridcule or closer than normal scrutiny.
Do I have to do this?
2007-03-06 00:56:49 · 13 answers · asked by Anonymous in Business & Finance ➔ Careers & Employment
I also take Ritalin everyday. And NO I would NOT tell my employer...i wouldn't tell them that I take birth control either...as neither of them are any of their business or life threatening or saving.
i would however tell them if I taking something that has serious side effects or could save my life, or something that I can't take...penacillian, insulin, blood thinners, etc.
Keep your information to yourself...unless it could save your life.
2007-03-06 01:09:39 · answer #1 · answered by Amy B 2 · 2⤊ 0⤋
I'm not from America and so this is a guess, but looking at the answers above, I agree with them completely. You are wise to not attract unnecessary scrutiny. If there is a Union at your work place, then maybe you should have a quiet chat with them. I think your manager's intentions are probably well intended, but would knowing what drugs the guy was on actually have prevented him from having the seizure? No, it would not. This is an important point to remember. The issue isn't drugs, it's the fact the guy had a condition and probably the company wasn't aware of it. If the management knew and hadn't taken any action to help the guy or make sure he was safe (such as from falling into a machine), then that is a management issue and is most definitely a reason to not disclose unnecessary information to them.
When you were employed, were you asked to notify them of any health conditions which might affect your ability to work? If you were, then I think you just need to say there hasn't been any reason to update that notification. If they get insistent, ask for the request in writing, and, as others have said, take it to your lawyer for advise.
2007-03-06 02:52:17 · answer #2 · answered by Bad bus driving wolf 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I work in healthcare. And I really don't think that he can make it mandatory for you to disclose your medical info. It violates state privacy acts. I would not disclose anything about taking Ritalin to him. It's none of his business. If they are doing this for a drug screening, then, then your medical condition should still remain private. Tell him you would like an explanation in writing as to why he is requesting this info. I would contact the labor board for your area and find out if this is legal. I really don't think it is. Not the way he's doing it anyway.
2007-03-06 02:35:42 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
His intentions might be innocent but he has no legal right to ask you for that information and I personally would not disclose it either. So what if he knows-- does he know what to do with that information in case of emergency? Probably not.
Why don't you suggest instead that the people on medications get medi-alert medallions so a paramedic can call in to get the required info. It protects your privacy and it gives your boss the piece of mind that his employees will get adequate appropriate care and that someone is aware of their medical history. He does not need to know that at all.
2007-03-06 01:01:30 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 2⤊ 0⤋
No i do not think you should have to comply with this request. Usually, it is the employee who has a medical problem who should notify the company of his/her condition and what should be done in the event of an emergency. As you so rightly pointed out, there could be possibility of medical information being used against staff. I hope this is not the intention of your boss.
2007-03-06 01:12:55 · answer #5 · answered by ann t 5 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Well, they are looking out for you in case something happens they can tell the paramedics. Why would you think they would ridicule you? Is this company HR department substandard? If they are okay I understand but most adults have that problem they advertise for it don't they. You should just take pride in the fact that you are working and giving them the best that you have to offer with your ADHD. I think that you should do it because you may need to have someone pass information where need be in case of emergency.
2007-03-06 01:07:11 · answer #6 · answered by De 5 · 0⤊ 2⤋
No, and since it isn't life threatening if you don't take it, I doubt he would care... I wouldn't disclose it. If you had to take nitroglycerin though for your heart or something (or in the case of your friend seizure meds) that is important to know.
2007-03-06 01:02:47 · answer #7 · answered by LeeLee 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
You may want to check with an attorney. That sounds, to me, like an invasion of privacy. Your health insurance company has those records but I think that there is a privacy thing that disallows them to share that information.
Speak with your HR rep also and get your company's employee handbook.
2007-03-06 01:09:14 · answer #8 · answered by credo quia est absurdum 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Sounds like its against the law to me. It could leave an amployee open to discrimination or may be used when deciding on future promotions etc. You should speak to your doctor. He/She may be able to give you some guidance. Good luck.
2007-03-06 01:01:14 · answer #9 · answered by cinsingl83 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
no you do not. He can get in trouble just for asking. Offer your doctor's number to be used in an emergency only instead
2007-03-06 01:04:32 · answer #10 · answered by Wishing ... 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋