Requests for medical documentation from a healthcare provider verifying an employee’s illness, injury, or need for medical leave are a common aspect of employment. These requests might relate to absences, requests for accommodation, or return-to-work processes. For instance, an employee returning after a prolonged absence due to a surgical procedure may be required to provide documentation clearing them for specific duties.
Verification of medical information protects both employers and employees. It helps employers ensure a safe work environment, manage absences effectively, and comply with relevant regulations like the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) or the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). For employees, it provides a formal mechanism to substantiate health concerns and protect their job security. Historically, such verification has evolved alongside increasing awareness of employee rights and employer responsibilities regarding health and safety in the workplace.