As a diabetic in Maryland, knowing your workplace rights is essential. Discrimination against diabetes sufferers is prohibited under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which was signed into law in 1990 and protects millions of employees nationwide. Providing for your family is a sacred right and employers that discriminate against you due to a medical condition must be held accountable for their behavior.
Reasonable accommodations
Employers must make reasonable accommodations for employees with diabetes to allow them to perform their duties as per their job description. These accommodations may include time off for medical appointments or modified work schedules to accommodate insulin injections or blood sugar testing.
Privacy
Your medical information is private and protected by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). Under employment law, your employer is not allowed to share your medical information with anyone without your permission, except in certain circumstances such as in an emergency.
Equal treatment
You have the right to be treated equally and without discrimination in the workplace. This means that your employer cannot discriminate against you in hiring, promotion or termination based on your diabetes status.
Health insurance
If your employer offers health insurance, they cannot deny coverage or charge you more because you have diabetes. They must also cover necessary medical treatments and supplies related to your diabetes.
Time off for medical leave
If you need time off for medical reasons related to your diabetes, you may be eligible for leave under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA). This law provides up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave annually for employees with serious medical conditions.
You have rights as a diabetic in the workplace
It is important to note that while you have these workplace rights as a diabetic, it is also important to communicate openly and honestly with your employer. Let them know what accommodations you need to perform your job effectively, and work together to find solutions that work for you and your employer. By working with our Christian law firm you can ensure that your workplace rights are respected and that you can manage your diabetes while maintaining a fulfilling career.