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Am I Overreacting?
As some of you know from FB, I'm currently dealing with a very painful kidney stone, which has caused me to miss some time from work. Only a few people at work are aware of my condition (people I have personal relationships with and the HR manager and my supervisor).
I was informed by a friend at work this morning, that my condition was shared with the entire senior management team at a meeting they had earlier this week. This information came to light after my friend was cornered by one of the Directors and was asked, "Were you aware that Amber was suffering from kidney stones?" My friend responded yes, and that it was my personal information that should not be shared. The Director then responded, "Well I don't understand why some people know what is going on, and others have to find out in meetings."
I'm beyond infuriated that the HR Manager shared this information (I'm 95% certain it was him and not my supervisor). Before I send a loaded email, please talk me off a ledge or tell me if I'm being overly dramatic. I don't think they can legally do this and if they were going to do it, I at least deserved a notification.
And yes, I realize that by sharing here and on FB, others can find out, but I have major issues with the fact that certain people at work (backstabbers) who have no relationship with me are now aware.
*Amber & Chuck - October 25, 2008*
Re: Am I Overreacting?
Why do you care if people know you have kidney stones?
They probably wanted to be specific so it didn't sound like you had a terminal illness or something. I don't think its the best thing, but it seems to me they have the right to know if you'll be out for an extended period or have a chronic condition.
I don't think your overreacting in the least. I don't know if I'd send an email, but I'd rather confront the HR manager in a private meeting.
ETA: I hope you feel better soon, would more margarita's help?
It's more of a matter that they felt the need to openly discuss my health condition - which I shouldn't have to share in the first place - without my knowledge or permission.
The point isn't that they shared that she has kidney stones (which, Amber, I hope you feel better!). The point is that they shared an employee's private information. There's no need for her co-workers to know why she isn't there, and abating any concerns they may have for her well-being isn't enough of an excuse. It's none.of.their.business.
Amber, I agree with PPs: I would speak to your supervisor in person, and then go to HR about it as well. I'm pretty sure them sharing your medical/health information is illegal, and it shouldn't be allowed to slide without comment/complaint.
Thank you for all the responses, although I'm pissed to be dealing with the situation, I'm happy to know that everyone agrees that I have a right to be angry.
I'll address with my supervisor tomorrow - I was going to send an email because they are off-site for a meeting today and was so angry I couldn't hold it in.
Yep, they violated your HIPPA privacy rights and the HR manager of all people should know that! It isn't only unethical it is a violation of federal law.
Amber, I'd be furious. No one in your office has a right to know about that or any condition you may have. A simple "it's nothing she can't get through with some treatment and time off" would have told everyone it's not life-threatening or going to significantly impact your performance.
I agree with others, you need to speak up about this.
Our Share of the Harvest: One couple's take on farm-to-table cooking
Chocolate Whoopie Pies with Strawberry Filling
to me it's one of those things that technically you are right but it's something that wouldn't bother me (it kind of seems normal for people wonder "what's wrong")
Like already mentioned, it is against the law. That right there is reason enough to have a problem with what they did. I've even had HR warn me not to tell many people, since it opens up the company to liability if anything happens later on.
I've had similar issues, where I want to explain kidney stones so immediate coworkers understand why I can come back to work seeming just fine so soon after. But, it's still Your choice who to tell, so I would not even be as nice as you and make it clear that it better never happen again.
Hope you feel better really soon! Keep drinking! If you want to commiserate about the horrible things, I can be reached at my screen name at gmail.