What rights do diabetics have?

You are entitled to reasonable accommodations even if you did not voluntarily disclose you have diabetes pre-job offer. Reasonable accommodations for diabetes can vary based on individual need, but examples include having access to private spaces to check blood glucose or take medication, working modified shifts, etc.

Are people with diabetes discriminated against?

In the U.S., individuals with diabetes have the legal right to work free from discrimination under federal and state laws. The federal Americans with Disabilities Act and (for some jobs) the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, require employers to treat workers with diabetes fairly and equally to other workers.

Is it illegal to fire someone for having diabetes?

Wrongful Termination due to a Medical Condition The California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) makes it illegal for your employer to discriminate against you due to a medical condition or perceived medical condition. Discrimination can include any adverse employment action, including firing or termination.

Is diabetes covered by the Equality Act 2010?

The Equality Act 2010 protects people with type 1 diabetes from discrimination at work, and requires an employer to make reasonable adjustments for disabled employees and job applicants who are disadvantaged as a result of their disability, like taking a short break to treat a hypo or check your blood glucose level.

Can a diabetic be a police officer?

Fire fighters, police officers, and other law enforcement personnel now have the benefit of guidelines developed by diabetes health care professionals that assess whether the person is able to do the job, rather than automatically disqualify the person on the basis of a diabetes diagnosis.

Can you still work if you have diabetes?

Most people are able to continue working even with the condition; however, in severe cases in which the disease and its symptoms severely limit the ability to perform standard job functions, the individual may be unable to maintain gainful employment.

What jobs can diabetics not do?

In addition to these advances, individuals with diabetes have broken down barriers to employment as police officers and cadets, IRS agents, mechanics, court security officers, FBI Special Agents, and plant workers.

How does diabetes affect ability to work?

Diabetes can affect employment in a number of ways. First, diabetes complications may prevent working entirely or increase absenteeism for those who work (11). Second, productivity while at work may also be impaired (12). Third, individuals with diabetes may face employment discrimination.

Can you be denied a job because of diabetes?

An employer can’t refuse to hire you based solely on your diabetes. In fact, you don’t even have a legal obligation to tell a prospective employer about your condition. Once you’ve been hired, the ADA also requires your employer to provide reasonable accommodations.

Do I have to tell my employer I have diabetes?

For most jobs, there’s no legal obligation to tell an employer you have diabetes. The Equality Act makes it unlawful for them to ask about your health before offering you work. But talking about your diabetes from the start can show that you’re positive about your condition.

Does type 2 diabetes qualify for disability?

The SSA no longer includes type 2 diabetes as a separate disability listing, so simply having that diagnosis won’t qualify you for benefits. However, if you have complications that meet the criteria under other disability listings, then you may be eligible. The most common are: Diabetic peripheral neuropathies.