Employer questioning, Ok under HIPPA?

[Anonymous]

My boss asked if my visit to the doctor was a scheduled appointment or if I had an emergency. I have never explained this to any employer and feel that this type of question is inappropriate. Is that allowed?

[Anonymous]

It’s HIPAA.

Is your employer asking because you are taking unscheduled time off? Or maybe they are just concerned.

[Anonymous]

Thanks. They’re not concerned about my health.

[Anonymous]

I have no idea if it’s allowed but I am guessing tgrh sre saying as a criticism of not giving g warning you’d be out if that’s the case.

[Anonymous]

This is not a HIPAA violation. Nosy and annoying? Sure. Not illegal.

[Anonymous]

HIPAA does not apply to employers; it applies to those in the medical professions who cannot disclose your information without your permission. ADA may apply in terms of asking about things like pregnancy and disabilities.

[Anonymous]

If you didn’t take time off in advance for a scheduled appointment, it could be a rules violation in your job or a performance issue.

[Anonymous]

HIPAA provides a framework for Covered Entities seeking to share Protected Health Information. It does not operate as a general bar against employers asking questions related to your health.

[Anonymous]

Thanks for the clarifications.

[Anonymous]

Did you want to the last minute to put in for time off? The timing of the appt, like during an important meeting or when you knew coverage was needed, or the last minute request is probably the issue.

[Anonymous]

It's a question about scheduling, not about your reason for going, diagnosis, treatment, etc. HIPPA doesn't really apply here, but that doesn't mean the question isn't too personal and thus inappropriate given your comfort level.

Do you have any concern about answering the question asked, without explaining any details you want to keep private about your health?