Can an employer require a doctor’s note?

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Can an employer require a doctor’s note?

I called out of work today with a stomach issue. I alerted my employer that I still do not feel right and

probably won’t be in tomorrow.

Asked on April 10, 2018 under Employment Labor Law, Rhode Island

Answers:

M.D., Member, California and New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney

Answered 6 years ago | Contributor

Unless you have an employment contract or union agreement to the contrary, your company can ask for a doctor's note to cover an absence of even just 1 day. The fact is that most work relationships are "at will" which means that a company can set the conditions of employment much as it sees fit (absent some for of actionable discrimination).

M.D., Member, California and New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney

Answered 6 years ago | Contributor

Unless you have an employment contract or union agreement to the contrary, your company can ask for a doctor's note to cover an absence of even just 1 day. The fact is that most work relationships are "at will" which means that a company can set the conditions of employment much as it sees fit (absent some for of actionable discrimination).


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