Time off of work if high risk-FMLA, PTO, etc.?

avc324 · Mar 29, 2020

I would love to know this as well. I have antiphospholipid antibody syndrome (autoimmune blood clotting disorder) with a history of PE and TIA. I talked to HR about this and they had me and my physician fill out a reasonable accommodation request. I submitted it yesterday so hopefully I’ll hear back Monday what my options are. I work on a medsurg/PCU overflow that was the original designated covid unit but now will be PCU level covid patients.

Gingerpup · Mar 29, 2020

Please keep us posted. My boss said I could get a medical leave and then I apparently get 30% of my pay using PTO and continue health insurance. I was thinking of asking for an accommodation instead which would be better because this could go on for 18 months or so. Currently my hospital is not allowing PPE use on less risky floors, meanwhile outside of the hospital walls everyone is staying away from each other like maniacs.

sammi2006, ADN, BSN, RN · Mar 29, 2020

I just found out that I am neutropenic 2 years after receiving chemotherapy for breast cancer so I started medical leave of absence today as requested by my oncologist. My emplo6is having me use pto/sick leave and encouraging me to apply for short term disability.

Gingerpup · Mar 29, 2020

Glad you are protecting yourself. How long do you plan to be on leave. You should apply for disability. Best of luck to you and keep well.

WInurse · Mar 29, 2020

If people staying home to take care of their kids because school is closed get paid from the government, then health care workers with health issues should be able to get unemployment or paid sick leave. The new FMLA does not cover health care workers. We all need to write a letter to our representatives letting them know health care workers need to be taken care of! We should not lose our incomes because our health is compromised if we get COVID.

sammi2006, ADN, BSN, RN · Mar 29, 2020

What changed with fmla? My Dr took me off work for 3 months, but I have an appointment with him in 3 weeks and if my labs are better then I can go back sooner.

WInurse · Mar 30, 2020

It was updated to cover more people, for example you only have to work at a place for 30 days, not one year. If you are still eligiable for the old FMLA then you are fine. I just wish this bill didn’t exclude health care for the expanded benefits.

Marianna5 · Mar 30, 2020

Does anybody know what qualifies you for FMLA ? I had a chemotherapy 2 years ago but stable currently. Will call my oncologist tomorrow to find out about it but he is not a compassionate kind and probably will deny any assistance for me to go on FMLA.

allnurses Guide · Mar 30, 2020

23 hours ago, avc324 said:
I would love to know this as well. I have antiphospholipid antibody syndrome (autoimmune blood clotting disorder) with a history of PE and TIA. I talked to HR about this and they had me and my physician fill out a reasonable accommodation request. I submitted it yesterday so hopefully I’ll hear back Monday what my options are. I work on a medsurg/PCU overflow that was the original designated covid unit but now will be PCU level covid patients.

How does APLS increase your risk with coronavirus?

SleepyRN · Mar 30, 2020

1 hour ago, Marianna5 said:
Does anybody know what qualifies you for FMLA ? I had a chemotherapy 2 years ago but stable currently. Will call my oncologist tomorrow to find out about it but he is not a compassionate kind and probably will deny any assistance for me to go on FMLA.

Perhaps ask your PCP? I believe it is up to the doctor to decide if your condition is considered a “serious” illness. Good luck with your decisions. Stay well!

Marianna5 · Mar 30, 2020

Good idea. Thank you!