Prime Medic's Blog
A Doctor Medical Certificate â“What Can Your Employer Ask?
Medical conditions can be a complicated subject sometimes for employers. An employee’s condition may affect their ability to work or changes for returning to work needing to be implemented. Medical conditions are a personal subject that can contain details that an employee might not wish to disclose to their employer.
Employers must understand their rights and their employee’s rights in order to avoid breaking the law. On top of this, it is crucial to be sensitive to the needs of each of their employees. So, when it comes to handing in your doctor medical certificate, what information can and can’t your employer ask?
What your employer cannot ask about your medical condition
Your employer can’t ask your doctor for access to your medical records or for any information regarding your health – without you giving permission first. Your employer also can’t request for you to disclose any information about any health conditions that arise during your employment.
You can choose to volunteer that information, and if you do, then your employer is required to make any reasonable adjustments to support you during your employment. If your employer is making reasonable adjustments for you, then they can seek advice from the doctor that treated you, but not without your consent first.
What your employer can ask about your medical condition
Your employer is allowed to ask questions that will assist them in determining if they are required to make any reasonable adjustments. This can include additional flexibility or an adapted working environment. Your employer can also ask questions for monitoring purposes. Your employer is also allowed to ask about your medical condition if it is believed that your condition may affect your ability to continue your daily tasks on the job.
Who should you talk to at work regarding your medical condition?
The best people to speak to at your work are trade unions (if there are any concerns about your medical treatment) and HR (Human Resources) managers.HR managers are able to give you advice and offer support with any required sick days, workplace adjustments or adjusted working hours that may be needed.
Whilst you will always have the option to keep new medical conditions hidden, it may be very difficult to do so. It can actually be beneficial for you to volunteer that information when it arises.
You can receive reprimands and written warnings for poor work performance and continued lateness, and employment contracts can be terminated due to long periods of sick leave taken. To have a clear definition of your rights, you can seek legal advice. However, additional support and rights can be afforded to you if you have been open about your health and medical conditions.
If you need to get your doctor medical certificate in Australia, taking advantage of our online services at Prime Medic will save you a great deal of time and stress. Easily book your doctor’s appointment online and experience the convenience of obtaining your medical certificate from the comfort of your home. Trust our platform for a seamless and efficient healthcare experience.
