Protecting Your Medical Privacy as a Federal Employee
Did you know that your federal agency is legally required to keep your medical information confidential—even if you don’t have a disability? Many employees assume that only HIPAA protects their health information, but in the federal workplace, it’s the Rehabilitation Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) that safeguard your medical privacy.
These laws require agencies to store medical records separately from personnel files and only share them with those who have a legitimate need to know. Yet, despite these clear protections, violations happen far too often.
Common Medical Privacy Violations
The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has ruled against federal agencies for improper medical disclosures in cases such as:
- Supervisors leaving medical records in open areas where others could see them.
- Managers sharing information about an employee’s medication with coworkers or contractors.
- Employers revealing an employee is “on medication”—even without mentioning a diagnosis.
These actions violate your rights and create risk for discrimination, stigma, and lost career opportunities. Your health is your business, and your agency should not be breaking the very laws it is expected to uphold.
How to Protect Yourself
If you believe your medical privacy has been violated:
- Document Everything – Keep detailed notes of who disclosed the information, when, and how.
- Know Your Rights – Understanding the Rehabilitation Act and ADA is key to holding agencies accountable.
- Strengthen Your Requests for Reasonable Accommodation – If your agency is resisting your accommodation request, ensure you have the right legal framework to advocate for yourself.
A Resource to Help You Take Action
To help federal employees navigate these challenges, we’ve created the Reasonable Accommodation Video Series—a step-by-step guide to strengthen your requests and push back against unfair denials. It’s based on years of experience helping federal employees and is available now.
Additionally, we’re launching a newsletter to keep you informed beyond the algorithm. This includes:
- Legal insights on important federal employment issues (not advice, just information).
- Mindfulness tips to help manage workplace stress.
- A general legal tip to help protect your rights.
Stay Informed & Stay Protected
The more you know, the better you can protect yourself. Follow us on social media, subscribe to our newsletter, and take charge of your federal career.
👉 Join the newsletter today and take control of your medical privacy rights.