myHSteam

Deciding whether to disclose an HS diagnosis at work is a personal choice, and there's no one-size-fits-all answer. However, there are some important things to know about your rights and options.

You are generally not required to tell your employer about your diagnosis. If you do need accommodations or time off, here's how Show Full Answer

Deciding whether to disclose an HS diagnosis at work is a personal choice, and there's no one-size-fits-all answer. However, there are some important things to know about your rights and options.

You are generally not required to tell your employer about your diagnosis. If you do need accommodations or time off, here's how to navigate it:

- Talk to HR, not your direct supervisor. HR is required to keep your medical information confidential, and your supervisor has no right to know your protected health information.
- Look into the Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA). If you've worked at a larger company for over a year, this can protect your job for up to 12 weeks of leave per year due to medical needs.
- Check the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This may entitle you to reasonable workplace accommodations.
- Consider disability benefits if HS prevents you from working entirely. If you do choose to share, keeping it simple works well. You can describe HS as a chronic inflammatory skin condition that occasionally causes painful flare-ups, which may sometimes require medical attention or rest.

The most important thing is to focus on managing HS well day-to-day, as keeping symptoms under control makes it easier to stay on top of work responsibilities.

 AI-generated responses are not a substitute for medical advice. These services are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any condition or disease. Always ask your doctor about specific health concerns.

Managing Hidradenitis Suppurativa at Work