scroll 1/2 way down:
"Who Is Not Required to Follow These Laws
Many organizations that have health information about you do not have to follow these laws.
Examples of organizations that do not have to follow the Privacy and Security Rules include:
Life insurers
Employers
Workers compensation carriers
Most schools and school districts
Many state agencies like child protective service agencies
Most law enforcement agencies
Many municipal offices"
At the top:
"Requests from your employer
Your employer can ask you for a doctor’s note or other health information if they need the information for sick leave, workers’ compensation, wellness programs, or health insurance.
However, if your employer asks your health care provider directly for information about you, your provider cannot give your employer the information without your authorization unless other laws require them to do so.
Generally, the Privacy Rule applies to the disclosures made by your health care provider, not the questions your employer may ask."
From what I read, if they can say that it is for sick days or for a wellness plan, then they can ask. Otherwise, no. Best if you read it yourself though.
I am not a lawyer, so my advice is worth what you paid for it... ;)
To be clear, I don't like any of this but please see below:
https://www.hhs.gov/hipaa/for-individuals/guidance-materials-for-consumers/index.htmlt
scroll 1/2 way down: "Who Is Not Required to Follow These Laws Many organizations that have health information about you do not have to follow these laws.
Examples of organizations that do not have to follow the Privacy and Security Rules include:
Life insurers Employers Workers compensation carriers Most schools and school districts Many state agencies like child protective service agencies Most law enforcement agencies Many municipal offices"
Also:
https://www.hhs.gov/hipaa/for-individuals/employers-health-information-workplace/index.html
At the top: "Requests from your employer Your employer can ask you for a doctor’s note or other health information if they need the information for sick leave, workers’ compensation, wellness programs, or health insurance.
However, if your employer asks your health care provider directly for information about you, your provider cannot give your employer the information without your authorization unless other laws require them to do so.
Generally, the Privacy Rule applies to the disclosures made by your health care provider, not the questions your employer may ask."
So what if I do not have health insurance thru my employer?
From what I read, if they can say that it is for sick days or for a wellness plan, then they can ask. Otherwise, no. Best if you read it yourself though.
I am not a lawyer, so my advice is worth what you paid for it... ;)
Hey I respect you playing devils advocate, we need that!