Can my employer force me to go to the doctor?

Question

Can my employer force me to go to the doctor?

Anonymous Oct 26, 2012 4 views 2 answers

I have had bronchitis for the past three months. This happens about two to three times a year because I'm a smoker. When I go to urgent or the doctor they typically say it's something that will eventually go away on its own and reluctantly give me antibiotics. The doctor wants my body to build immunity to it. I'm not contagious but I have an annoying cough and my office manager claims she's getting complaints and is requiring a doctor's note explaining to her what I have. I'm just curious if they can even do this. In case it matters, I work in a law office and don't have a lot of interaction with people.

Michael Kirschbaum · Accepted Answer · 2026-06-15T10:40:02+00:00

There is nothing unlawful about an employer asking an employee to provide medical clearance indicating an employee is fit to work. Employers have a legal obligation to its employees to make sure they work in a safe and healthful work environment. When there appears to be legitimate concern that an employee may be suffering from a communicable illness, it is reasonable for an employer to ask the employee to provide confirmation from a doctor that there is no cause for concern. The medical clearance does not have to provide detail about private medical information. It only needs to say you are okay to perform your job duties.

Frank Chen · Accepted Answer · 2026-06-15T10:40:02+00:00

Frank Chen

Frank Chen · Jun 15, 2026

Yes. I agree with Attorney Kirschbaum's response.

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Can my employer force me to go to the doctor?

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