Q: Can my employer require a doctors note because I left work early due to not feeling well?
I was told HR would have to speak to me about consequences because it is technically a “walk out “ since I showed up at all yesterday. I went to urgent care and was put on the waitlist to be seen, but it was almost 5:30 PM when I arrived at urgent care and they closed at seven, so I wasn’t able to be fit in. My employer is now telling me I cannot return to work without a doctors note. This was nothing contagious or super concerning so I’m not sure if they can require it after missing just one day?
A:
Hello again - I answered your other question on point. Employers hold most of the "power" in 49 of the 50 states, plus the territories and DC. Most employees are "at will" - this means an employer can terminate an employee for zero reason, and with zero advance notice. Since that is the case, they can also require a doctor's note before they allow you to return to work. Please see my answer to your other question for additional information.
Best,
Merry
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