Maloney O'Laughlin PLLC fights for employees throughout Washington, from Seattle to Spokane.

Maloney O'Laughlin PLLC fights for employees throughout Washington, from Seattle to Spokane.

How to talk to your boss about your diabetes

On Behalf of | Nov 12, 2022 | Disability Discrimination And Accommodation

Diabetes is a condition that affects the way your body metabolizes sugar. It requires management with a strict diet and sometimes insulin or other medications.

By law, your boss must make reasonable accommodations for you to manage your condition. WebMD offers some advice about how to talk to your boss about it.

Create a script

Not everyone knows much about diabetes and may not understand what it means. Create a script of the most important information that you need to communicate to your boss.

Enlist your doctor’s help

It is easier to ask your boss for accommodations to help you manage your diabetes if you know exactly what you need. Talk to your doctor about how often you need to test and when you need to take your insulin or other medications.

If your boss does not take your diabetes seriously at first, your doctor’s knowledge and authority may carry more weight. Ask your doctor if he or she can provide a note explaining your condition and the accommodations you need or some educational materials about diabetes that you can share with your boss.

Know your rights

Familiarize yourself with the Americans With Disabilities Act and any other laws that apply to your situation. It is easier to assert your rights when you know exactly what the law entitles you to.

Diabetes does not follow your work schedule. Make it clear to your boss that if you do not eat and take your medicine on schedule, it could result in a medical emergency.