Tips for Requesting IBD Work Accommodations
1. Prepare in advance for your request
- You can request accommodations in a conversation, but it is recommended you put it in writing
- Reach out to your HR department for specific guidelines
2. Gather medical paperwork
- Request medical documentation to demonstrate your need
- Documentation may include: a letter from your doctor, exam notes, test results, appointment confirmations, etc.
3. Be prepared to answer your employer's questions
- They CAN ask for medical information related to the requested accommodation
- They CANNOT ask for medical information outside of the requested accommodation
| Examples of Reasonable Accommodations | Examples of Unreasonable Accommodations |
| ☑ Moving a workspace closer to a bathroom ☑ Changing or having flexible work hours to accommodate healthcare appointments, procedures, or symptoms ☑ Additional rests or breaks to help with fatigue or symptoms ☑ Working from home when not feeling well ☑ Unpaid or paid leave for hospitalizations or procedures |
☒ Anything that is extremely costly to the employer ☒ Anything that requires major changes to the employer’s physical environment ☒ Asking to work from home when your attendance in person is essential for the job (ex: A waiter or waitress at a restaurant must be present to do the job) |
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