Full time job and doctor's appointments!

[maya]

I'm in my late 20s, have a full time job that I started 6 months back.

In last 3-4 months, I usually end up having one doctor's appointment every week! (That's a different story, I will write separately).

I haven't told anything at all at my work place, in fact I don't have any definite diagnosis to talk about. Nor do I want to talk about my health situation with anyone at job.

But because of these appointments, I keep "disappearing" for 2 hours every other time during regular work schedule. I usually let people know that I've a doctor's appointment before I leave. But I've done that so many times that I don't know what they are thinking about it. And I appear totally normal health wise

I usually try to schedule these appointments during lunch break so that I can "disappear" without any explanation but this can't make that happen all the time.

Anyone in similar situation? Just wanted to share this but tips/advice very very welcome. 

[dayng1016]

Hi Maya and Welcome!

I think this situation depends on the type of job you have.  If you have job that when your out, someone has to cover your spot, then at some point you should let at least your supervisor know something.  But if you have the type of job that only you do and no one has to cover your spot while your out then that's a little different because your being out is not impacting anyone but you.  At some point, maybe once you have a definite diagnosis, you may want to let your supervisor aware.  I do agree about not wanting to discuss your health situation with just anyone, because stuff like that is not just anyone's business.  All in all though, the decision is one only you can make.

I hope my rambling makes some sense though.  Good luck with everything.  I know it can be frustrating not having any explanations for the symptoms you have, just be patient, the answers will come.  

Pam

[ktfabian]

Hi Maya-

I don't work anymore - I stopped working many years ago due to a back injury.  But even back then, I had health issues - just no explanation.  I had a very good relationship with my immediate boss (we'd worked together in the past and he'd brought me to this job), so I just had a quick discussion with him at one point saying that  I realized that my doctor's appointments ate into company time sometimes, but that I was committed to the job and would make up any work that was missed on my own time.  He was very understanding and gave me the slack I needed to care for my health and do my job.

I don't know how you get along with your supervisor, so something like what I did may not be an option for you, but I thought I'd throw it out for consideration.  Whatever you decide I'm sure will be best for you.  I'm sure you'll be able to work it out,
Tracy

[lynnmarie219]

I try as often as is possible to schedule appts. around work hours. If I cant I have worked there long enough to request some sick/personal time to cover me or in situations where it just may be a little late or leave a little early I adjust my hours with no time off requests. I am salary so its a bit easier to do that...I work overtime without pay....so its kind of an understanding that if you need a little time here and there thats ok since we have the extra unpaid hours anyway...but if it turns into a longer appt. I use my benefit time!

Good luck to you.....I know this can be very frustrating!

[missyb]

I would probably just let my immediate supervisor be aware that I am experiencing a non life threatening health issue so they don't think I'm sneaking off to loaf around. Most everyone knows someone who has gone through the medical mill so you may be surprised to find someone very supportive.
Missy