FMLA

FMLA/CFRA/PDL

Physician certifications for medical leaves under the Family Medical Leave Act, California Family Rights Act or Pregnancy Disability Leave may be completed and released to the patient or patient's legal representative. In cases where a family member is taking a leave from work to care for an ill or incapacitated loved one, for example a mother or father, the family member can seek certification from the mother or father's physician. The mother or father's signature should be present either on the certification form or in a letter or statement requesting the family member to obtain the certification. The physician should retain a copy of the certification and document in the chart that the certification was given to the family member. Physician certifications must not be released directly to employers, insurance companies or any other entity without a valid written authorization from the patient.

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