Question:
Should I tell employer?

My surgery is scheduled in May. I have just started a new position but I have been with the company for three years. The company frowns :( on people being out for being sick. I am going to use vacation time but am wondering should I let them know now or wait until its closer or not tell them. The last time I was out in 5 days and was a lot bigger with more health problems    — snicklefritz (posted on March 19, 2003)

March 19, 2003
I too had planned on not telling my employer about my surgery until the very last minute, but I had to keep asking for time off here and there to do psych eval appointments and dr.'s appointments, etc. Finally they asked what it was for (since I was requesting the time off without pay) and so I told them, but I did it behind closed doors and asked them to be discreet due to the fact that I haven't told many people here. They were very understanding, especially after I explained the reasons and procedures of the surgery to them -- they weren't real familiar with WLS. And don't worry about them "frowning" on being sick -- my boss is like that too, and this isn't about being sick, it's about doing something to save your life. Tell them that! Hope this helps, and good luck.
   — beeda

March 19, 2003
I would tell them at least 30 days before hand. This gives them an opportunity to plan for your departure (temp. replace for your duties etc) I know you are using vacation time but I know for medical leave requests typically they need a min. 30 day notice. Good Luck!
   — Jenny B.

March 19, 2003
I LET MY EMPLOYER KNOW SIX MONTHS AHEAD OF TIME SO THAT I COULD USE MY VACATION FOR THIS REASON. I THINK THAT THEY SHOULD RESPECT YOU MORE IN THE LONG RUN BECAUSE, LIKE IN MY CASE IF SOMETHING HAPPENS AND I HAVE TO BE OUT MORE THAN TWO WEEKS THEY CAN HAVE A BACK UP PLAN. IT ALSO COULD DEPEND ON YOU POSITION. IF YOUR IN A POSITION WITH ADDED RESPONSABILITYS THAT ONLY YOU CAN HANDLE IT HELPS SO THAT YOU CAN PREPARE OR ATLEAST LEAVE DETAILED NOTES FOR THE PERSON THAT POSSIBLY HAS TO TAKE OVER FOR YOU WHILE YOUR OUT.
   — Marcy H.

March 19, 2003
In my opinion, if you are using Vacation time (rather than sick time, medical leave or short term disability) you have no obligation to tell them why. I would tell them that you are planning a vacation as soon as possible so that you can be sure to get the time off that you need.
   — Amber L.

March 19, 2003
I am not planning on telling my employer or co-workers for belief that they will be judgemental and non-supportive. My attorney says I do not have to tell or list exact diagnosis why I am requesting medical leave .. the doctor's signature confirming leave is medically necessary is all required by law. Everyone feels different about this subject. It depends on employer/co-workers/work enviroment .. and most importantly .. what you want.
   — Sarah H.