My employer works with a third party insurance company for short term and long term leave disability/medical leave. I’ve notified my employer about needing to go on short term leave to focus on health needs. I did not disclose specifics with my employer, they also did not ask. I need to go on leave to deal with mental health issues i’m currently facing. I have started 2 new medications in the past couple of months and we have been trying various dosages. All of my drs (physician, psychiatrist and therapist) know of my plans to take time off and are supportive. I filed my claim today with the insurance company, a few hours later I received a Docusign telling me I HAVE to sign the following forms:
“Authorization for release and disclosure of health related information”
“Authorization for release and disclosure of psychotherapy notes” and
“Authorization for release and disclosure of non health related information”
I haven’t had to take leave before so I apologize for my ignorance, but these forms seems a bit excessive and like a potential overreach. Especially considering they have faxed my psychiatrist very specific paperwork he needs to fill out for my claim regarding my needs. Do I legally have to sign these documents in order to be granted short term leave? I’ve read through them a couple times and I don’t know why they would need to have my LIFETIME, FULL MEDICAL RECORDS. Also do not understand the need for them having “non health related information.”
Has anyone been through this as well? Please share any and all advice. I’ve asked my doc but it’s after hours and he has not replied to me yet.
Thanks!