I hope this page will serve as a starting point to assist you in arranging a suitable work schedule and environment while living with IH.

 

The ability of a person to continue working once diagnosed with IH will differ from case to case. There may be people who need a reduced daily work schedule, those who may occasionally need time off for treatments and flare-ups, and those who may not be able to continue working at all.

 

What options do I have?

• One option to exercise is a Family Leave of Absence for yourself. This is a Federal Act protecting employees and their jobs, for people who need time off of work due to their own illness (or a family members illness). This leave can be taken as a large block of time together or intermittently (sporadic days and hours). You may need to check with your company for their policy on minimum hours worked prior to requesting this leave (around 1250 hours in the previous 12 months).  
• Another option is requesting a Reasonable Accommodation under the American's with Disabilities Act (IH falls within this act - as an invisible disability). This is typically done by written request to your company's Human Resource department, clearing stating the type of accommodation you need, under this act. This can range from a reduced work schedule to changes in your working environment (filters to decrease glare on your computer screen, for example). An employer with more than 50 employees that cannot prove it would be a financial hardship to do otherwise, must accommodate your working conditions (within reason).
• Many companies also offer a Sick Leave of Absence. These are generally unpaid absences that will protect your job while you're away. Depending on the company policy, you may be able to use vacation or sick pay as well as short and long term disability. 

What do I tell my employer?

• This is strictly up to you. It is not necessary to disclose all the details of your illness and treatments. In some cases disclosure may help an employer to understand and better assist your specific needs. Either way, it's a decision to be carefully considered.

Below are a few links I found informative in relation to workplace leave and accommodation. 

• Home page for the Department of Labor. Access Labor Laws and revisions. Many related links. Click Here
• Home page of the Job Accommodation Network (JAN) The Job Accommodation Network
• This will bring you directly to information on the ADA act ADA Information
• Page of the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) Click Here