Understanding Serious Health Conditions

A serious health condition is a medical condition that requires a response that is either prolonged in need of inpatient care or continuing treatment or a terminal condition. In the context of work and family law, serious health condition is a term used to describe a condition that substantially limits an individual’s ability to perform essential daily life activities, such as work. In the workplace, the accommodations that may be made to assist an individual with a serious health condition must respect the employee’s privacy and protect their legal rights.

Examples of Serious Health Conditions in the Workplace

Depression, anxiety, and chronic conditions, such as diabetes and arthritis, may be considered serious health conditions when they significantly interfere with a person’s life. The effects of serious health conditions may also be physical, such as chronic pain or inability to lift heavy objects, limited mobility, or impaired vision. Other examples of serious health conditions include cancer, HIV/AIDS, multiple sclerosis, fibromyalgia, post-traumatic stress disorder, and severe allergies.

Accommodations for a Serious Health Condition

When an employee is affected by a serious health condition, their employer may need to make reasonable accommodations in the workplace to allow the employee to perform their job. For example, a person with vision impairment may need special equipment such as a magnifying glass or software to enable them to work. A person with a hearing impairment may require a different or amplified telephone so they can communicate effectively. Employers may also need to adjust work schedules to accommodate an employee’s particular needs.

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Related Legal Concepts

Understanding serious health condition often goes hand in hand with health care directive and durable power of attorney for health care, which help individuals plan for medical decision-making during incapacitation. In the workplace context, the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) establishes safety standards that can help prevent conditions from developing, while health benefits provided by employers may cover treatment for serious health conditions that do arise.

The Bottom Line

A serious health condition encompasses medical issues that significantly impact daily functioning and may require workplace accommodations or extended medical leave. Employees with such conditions have legal protections under various federal and state laws, while employers must balance accommodation duties with business needs. For guidance specific to your situation, always consult a qualified, licensed attorney.