Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects thousands of people in Tennessee. If you’re living with diabetes, you have certain rights in the workplace that are protected by law.
Reasonable accommodations
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires employers to provide reasonable accommodations to employees with disabilities, including diabetes. This may include time off for doctor’s appointments or the ability to take breaks to check blood sugar levels and administer insulin. Employers may also be required to make physical modifications to the workplace, such as providing a private area to test blood sugar levels or store insulin.
Privacy
Your medical information is private, and your employer must keep it confidential. This includes your diagnosis, treatment plan and any related medical information. Employers are not allowed under employment law to discriminate against you or share your medical information without your consent.
Non-discrimination
The ADA also prohibits employers from discriminating against employees with disabilities, including diabetes. This includes not hiring, firing or promoting someone based on their diabetes status. Employers must also provide the same level of benefits, such as health insurance coverage, to employees with diabetes as they do to those without.
Time off for medical appointments
Employers must provide reasonable time off for medical appointments, including those related to diabetes. This includes time off for doctor’s appointments, testing and treatment. Employers are not allowed to retaliate against employees for taking time off for medical reasons.
Protection from harassment
Employees with diabetes are protected from harassment and bullying in the workplace. This includes any negative comments or actions related to your diabetes diagnosis. If you experience harassment or discrimination, you have the right to report it to your employer and file a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).
Living with diabetes in the workplace
If you’re living with diabetes, you have certain workplace rights that the law protects. If you feel that your rights are being violated, it’s important to take action to protect your ability to secure your livelihood. By knowing your rights, you can ensure that you’re able to work in a safe and accommodating environment.