Doctor's Excuse to Return to work?

[Slug fd4]

Does anyone have any information on the legality on requiring a diagnosis on a doctors excuse to return to work? One of our Firefighters took sick leave, and now the Fire Chief is demanding a diagnosis from the Doctor. The Doctor refuses to put one due to Patient Confidentiality. Any responses or other insight would be appreciated.

[beenthere]

Normally a Dr. note is enough.Managment always tries to get more info than is required, so they can build up a file on everyone. I would check with your union rep.(just one of many reasons to have the union) as under normal conditions nothing more than a Dr. note is required.We have fought this many times and won.Stay safe all.

[FFsSignfOthr]

They should not need a diagnosis to RETURN to work, just a note saying he is now fit for duty. If they are questioning why he took sick leave in the first place, a simple note saying he had a condition or injury that preventing him from being able to fulfill his duties. Nothing more - patient confidentiality is still one of our rights in this country. If they want more, tell them to take it up in court.

[res7cue]

As long as the DR releases the PT to return to Duty, the dept is NOT entitled to a diagnosis without the PT signing a release due to PT confidentialty.