Question:
How do I apply for medical leave and short term disablility?

   — Kenisha S. (posted on June 11, 2003)

June 11, 2003
Contact the Human Resources department where you work.
   — koogy

June 11, 2003
I would agree with the previous poster. However, you should know that the Federal Family & Medical Leave Act protects your employment position if you need to take a medical leave, although it is an unpaid leave, unless you are entitled to paid leave by your employer's personnel policies. You should write a letter to the appropriate person at ypur place of employment stating that you are requesting medical leave for a period of time, and that you would like to apply for temporary disability. In New Jersey, there is a waiting priod, but then you would be entitled to 2/3 of your normal pay level up to a maximum for about six months, depending upon continued medical evaluation and necessity. Either your employer, or your state's departments or labor or insurance should have information available regarding both of the issues you are concerned about. Good Luck.
   — David F.

June 11, 2003
You can also ask your surgeon, they should have all the forms to apply for SDI or you can also go on line at the EDD (Employment Development Department) website they have the claim forms there and you can print them out with detailed instructions.
   — Diane B.

June 13, 2003
You must provide your company with the surgery paperwork from your physician. It should indicate on the form the type of surgery you're having, date of surgery, expected time off from work and restrictions required once you return. When I told my company about my surgery, they were very supportive of me. I waited 4 months after my first appointment to tell my employer. I wanted to wait to have the surgery until I had reached my year anniversary and I qualified for short term disability. I worked for a very large firm and people I didn't even know came up to me and said "I heard about your upcoming surgery". They tracked my weight loss! When you go in to talk to your employer, be positive. You may want to bring your brochures.
   — dolphins94