Hi.
I am currently taking an extended sick leave (5-6 weeks) for a medical condition. I have provided my employer with a medical certificate. I have also emailed them (I.e. HR, not my supervisor) a detailed explanation of my situation at the commencement of my leave.
They are now requesting me to sign a consent form so they can speak to my doctor about details of my condition, prognosis, return to work, etc. I informed them that as this was not compulsory, I would prefer to exercise my right not to have further details discussed with my doctor. I also told them I could happily provide documentation from the doctor verifying that 1. My condition warrants the necessary time off; 2. My return to work date and 3. Full medical clearance to return to work full time without need for workplace adjustments, etc.
This seemed to satisfy them via email discussion. However, I have now received a formal letter in the post from them, requesting that I fill in the consent form and return it so they can speak to the doctor about the details of my condition. Further, they have said that if I do not comply, they will consider arranging their own independent medical assessment for me.
Can they force me to do this under Employment Law? I have good reasons for not wanting detailed info regarding this to go on my file. I have already explained to them why I am off and my doctor can verify that the condition warrants this period of leave.
Any help would be appreciated!
I am currently taking an extended sick leave (5-6 weeks) for a medical condition. I have provided my employer with a medical certificate. I have also emailed them (I.e. HR, not my supervisor) a detailed explanation of my situation at the commencement of my leave.
They are now requesting me to sign a consent form so they can speak to my doctor about details of my condition, prognosis, return to work, etc. I informed them that as this was not compulsory, I would prefer to exercise my right not to have further details discussed with my doctor. I also told them I could happily provide documentation from the doctor verifying that 1. My condition warrants the necessary time off; 2. My return to work date and 3. Full medical clearance to return to work full time without need for workplace adjustments, etc.
This seemed to satisfy them via email discussion. However, I have now received a formal letter in the post from them, requesting that I fill in the consent form and return it so they can speak to the doctor about the details of my condition. Further, they have said that if I do not comply, they will consider arranging their own independent medical assessment for me.
Can they force me to do this under Employment Law? I have good reasons for not wanting detailed info regarding this to go on my file. I have already explained to them why I am off and my doctor can verify that the condition warrants this period of leave.
Any help would be appreciated!