My employer’s medical plan requires that we divulge private information before we can proceed with medical care for certain conditions. I feel this is an invasion of my privacy — do I have to comply?
The changes in health-care legislation, plans and services are happening at such a rapid pace and are confusing enough to HR experts, let alone the average worker. It is unlikely your employer is requiring the information; rather, it’s probably the medical plan administrator — and it is likely not in violation of any benefits or HIPAA legislation (which protects patient privacy). More likely the plan requires a second medical opinion before agreeing to cover a certain procedure or expense — or a primary-care physician referral to a specialist. However, if you have any questions or concerns, discuss the matter with the benefits specialist at your firm — and if you still aren’t satisfied, contact the patients’ advocate division of the health-care provider.
Last week you responded to a question about catching two colleagues engaging in “hanky-panky” in the office. My employer also frowns upon colleagues dating each other. Why is that their business, and can they really prevent it? There’s someone I’m interested in, but I’m afraid to lose my job if I ask her out — whether by violating company policy or having her complain of sexual harassment!
There are volumes of employment law and company policies that are necessary, appropriate and help ensure a safe and equal opportunity workplace free of discrimination of any kind. But when it comes to matters of the heart . . . well . . . the heart wants what the heart wants! Did Prohibition prevent people from drinking? Will the mayor really be able to prevent us from drinking 64-ounce slushies?! Some employers require notification of relationships between employees so they can ensure that the relationship is proper — meaning not between a boss and subordinate — and to avoid any other possible conflicts (particularly when the relationship goes sour, which we know many do). So, Casanova, as long as the object of your affection isn’t the boss or a subordinate — and your ego can graciously accept being rebuffed — then there will be no basis for a hostile work environment claim, and I say go for it.