I work for HCA and recently applied for a job with another healthcare system. When that company called to get a reference check through human resources they were referred to a 900 number which requires a $20 fee to verify employment. When they called my department, they were told that HCA policy would not allow them to give a reference, all references go through human resources. I am an employee in good standing, I have not missed a day of work since I have been there and I met or exceeded expectations on my last performance review. I have requested that my department head will provide a personal reference, but at this point it is out of my control. I know my department does not want me to leave. What else can I do? I feel trapped and powerless now because the reference is standing in the way of another job.

It is my understanding that an employer, by law, can only confirm that you were employed there. No additional information can be provided.

It is my understanding that an employer, by law, can only confirm that you were employed there. No additional information can be provided.

Not true -- most employers don't give out more than hire date, separation date, and whether or not you're eligible for rehire for their own protection (to avoid the possibility of lawsuits), but there's nothing legally stopping employers from giving out as much information as they want.

Have you considered offering to pay the $20?

The large national company I work for also uses a paid employment verification system, but this is for verifying wages when applying for loans and housing.

It varies from state to state as to what an employer can or will say in a reference check.

This isn't an attempt by your current employer to keep you from taking a new job. They just have a contract with this third party agency.

Could you give the new potential employer the name and phone number of a supervisor who can provide a direct reference for you?