Thinking out loud… two-fold
1. I am currently searching for a new job. In the process, I’ve been diagnosed with an autoimmune disease. I’ve been going through the process of trying to get a diagnosis for my ailments for quite awhile now. My current company doesn’t have very many benefits (no pto, 401k, etc.). The pay is also abysmal. However, we do seem to have really good medical insurance based on my experience vs. that of others I know. So with this new diagnosis and needing treatment, that part is a plus (even though I’m not sure of the extent for treatments e.g. infusions, so I’ll need to look further into that.). I also don’t know how a new company would react or how to even bring it up, particularly for one company that I’ve been in promising talks with. Obviously, companies can’t discriminate bc of a disability, but I know there are also biases.
2. I am really really struggling physically and mentally, and while I am looking for a new job, I really just want a break from working. We don’t have short term disability where I am now. I don’t know if I’d qualify for disability, since my diagnosis is so new (been having progressing symptoms for years now though). I don’t know if I’d even want to qualify for it. I could try to go that route and also apply for Medicaid, but I’ve heard from people that have it and also medical professionals, that people with Medicaid are treated differently (a lot of doctors don’t take, or either have a cap on, Medicaid patients; you have to fight hard for any little thing, etc.). It’s all very new, very scary, and really stressful.
I have the mind to say life is too short, quit my job, and do more of what makes me happy. Then reality kicks in. Sigh.
Has anyone else gone through similar struggles?
Anonymous
09/14/21 at 1:41PM UTC
I can't offer any different advice than the wonderful ladies who did so before me - but I commend you for reaching out and advocating for your own health. Auto-immunes take FOREVER to figure out it seems. You are right, stress increases inflammation which in turn increases stress and you have to take care of yourself. Take a deep breath and give yourself a chance to absorb everything (that's what you seem to be doing). You don't mention what autoimmune you have, but there are so many support groups who meet both online and in person. I would look up the auto-immune's website and find a support group. Surrounding yourself with others who have the same medical issue as you will not only help you, you will more than likely find someone who is in the same boat and can offer some solutions (or at least comfort!) for you. Good luck, and don't give up!
Anonymous
09/11/21 at 12:53PM UTC
That's a hard position to be in while job hunting. I'm sorry you're going through this. Others have given some good feedback on not sharing anything about your illness/condition unless you are requesting accommodation. I wanted to give a little feedback on Medicaid and disability as I have worked extensively with both. First, the eligibility requirements, provider networks and quality of care are going to vary hugely from state to state and from locale to locale. Please don't assume that clinics serving people on Medicaid are going to be poor quality, dirty, or unprofessional, etc. I would recommend locating the clinics you are most likely to use, including specialists, confirming whether they accept not just Medicaid, but NEW Medicaid patients, and then stop in to confirm cleanliness, professionalism, etc, if this is a concern in your area. Also ask about scheduling time - how long are you likely to wait for an appointment. Scheduling times can be longer if the network is limited. In my area (a medium sized city in a state which expanded Medicaid) the quality of care in the primary care offices which accept Medicaid is very good but the number of offices is limited. Most specialists accept Medicaid but the wait time may be long and you may need your primary care docs to advocate to help speed up the process. If you live in a state that did not expand Medicaid to all adults below a certain income level, do not count on qualifying for Medicaid. Although Medicaid is a federally funded program, states have great discretion in determining eligibility rules for adults. Check out your state's rules before assuming that you can qualify. Regarding disability (I assume you mean SSI/SSDI) it is a process that usually takes several months at best. If your diagnosis is one that guarantees diagnostic ability (there aren't a lot of these), that will keep the process on the shorter end of things. If not, it can take years to qualify. I may be able to give you some input if that would be helpful. Hang in there, this is all very stressful, I know!
Paulla Fetzek
Teacher, Lighting Expert, & Office Professional
2.9k
09/10/21 at 9:34PM UTC
First of all, I'm sorry to hear of your diagnosis. I was diagnosed with Hashimoto's Thydroitis in 2014 and take medication. Which my endocrinologist thinks makes me perfectly fine now that my TSH and other numbers are normal.
My job doesn't consider my disorder a medical condition to be concerned about because I take medicine for it. At any rate, if you can quit and are able to sustain yourself without working, do what makes you happy and where you feel safe.
Michelle820
86
09/10/21 at 2:41PM UTC
Hello, I also have an autoimmune disorder. I have noticed when applying for work, under the disability clause they do mention my disorder where they didn’t before! At first I was saying yes, now I do not..reason I do believe they do hold it against us…I am also a senior worker also, so doesn’t help.
Best I can tell you, stress is terrible for us..be very particular in what you choose. Maybe work from home or do something you enjoy that still brings In a decent salary. I am told that I shouldn’t let this dictate my life and do whatever I want, that is not a reality for us. I was forced into early retirement after a 2 week stay in the hospital.. I don’t know what you have, I have Chrons/Colitis and there are days I just can’t go in. Good insurance does matter and now with the pandemic we need to be extra careful. If you want to talk or just vent, I am here for you ?
Anonymous
08/28/24 at 3:29AM UTC
Hi Michelle,
Original poster here. I know this was long ago, but I was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. It's been a struggle, and I'm still learning to live with it. I've been in a new role for 2.5 years and have pretty good insurance. I'm looking for a new opportunity now, and good insurance is still a priority. I hope you are well and appreciate your offer to talk. I am here if you would like that support as well.
Anonymous
09/09/21 at 1:42PM UTC
Yes, I have gone through this. My advice is to stay off Medicaid and stay with your current job. Many, many doctors will not take Medicaid. When I say "many", I mean I have lived in rural areas where I could not find healthcare (a doctor) at all for years because I was on Medicaid. Dentists are the same. When you do find a doctor, their care is sub-standard and you will see it - the office will be dirty, deserted, and in one case, I had a nurse tell me she was high on illegal drugs. I had to walk out before receiving treatment from her.
Sue Gordon- retired Career Coach
3.22k
09/08/21 at 3:31PM UTC
This is tough and I'm sorry you are going through this. First, do not tell the prospective employer about your disability prior to being hired. Tell them only when you need "reasonable accommodation." So, if you need regular sick-leave or a schedule accommodation for doctor's appointment then you would tell them. You don't need to tell them the diagnosis. Not sure what accommodations you need? Your doctor can advise and you can get more information at the JAN network here: https://askjan.org/soar.cfm
You are in a tough spot- it is stressful to change jobs but if the current one is making you sick, then you should consider it. Once you get to the offer or final interview stage, it's OK to ask about benefits including PTO and insurance. They may have info on their public site also.
Regarding qualifying for disability, the length of the disability doesn't matter, rather its impact on your ability to function in your job. It's a shame your company doesn't offer STD. That sounds like what you need- a bit of time to rest and learn to manage your disorder.
Good luck!
Anonymous
08/28/24 at 3:21AM UTC
Thank you for sharing! The JAN network was such a good resource to learn of.
Anonymous
09/02/21 at 2:51PM UTC
I'm so sorry you're going through this! If your current job is enjoyable and offers you the medical insurance you need then it might be best to stay a bit longer while you need treatment. You can also look up different company's policies online and find out what kind of insurance they offer (or ask during interviews, but keep it general) and that may help you make a decision if you want to stay or leave.
Anonymous
09/02/21 at 9:55PM UTC
Thank you!! My job is okay, but I don’t enjoy it. The culture is very stressful—very all-consuming. And I’ve noticed that the stress makes my symptoms worse. I also know that stress induces inflammation and inflammation increases the risk for various diseases or their flare-ups. I’m holding on as long as I can. We shall see though. I like your idea about looking for company’s insurance options online. I will try that!
