HR has instituted new form to give to MD for clearance to return to work. The form lists MD diagnosis of health problem treated. The employee must have the MD complete the form and return to HR before returning to work.

Is this a violation of my privacy if I do not want my condition for being out sick known to my employer? Previouse form only noted that client was treated and able to return to work without any notation of the cause of illness.

Its up to you if you fill it out or not. Do you want to return to work or not?

Fill it out as required or your employer can legally fire or lay you off. They have the right to know the real reason for an extended absence... and to determine for their own liability reasons if you are capable of returning to do your job.

HIPPA doesn't cover this situation.

http://www.hhs.gov/ocr/privacy/hipaa/understanding/summary/