Boss is trying to force me to take unemployment

[katiebel]

I recently had surgery and got an ilestomy bag during my procedure. I have been on medical leave since. Basically I have worked at my job for 3 years a small family owned business and I basically help run a small auto repair shop. Never missed work really in the 3 years I have been there until now. I received calls from my boss and his wife asking me how I was doing. Before I had surgery my boss's wife informed me their insurance rates were raising like everyone else. My work does pay for my insurance. They are changing insurance I told her I didn't want to get screwd and wanted to make sure I would still be covered with my condition. She assured me she would do that to me. Anyways long story short. I have kept in touch with my job and they understand the severness of this disease. Now my boss asked me if I would consider depending on how much longer I would be out on medical leave if I would go on unemployment and have insurance by the state with is very expensive. Basically I feel like Im being pushed either to go back to work to keep my insurance or forced to go on unemployment to receive some type of income and lose my insurance and I still don't know what insurance they are switching to on March 1st. My surgery was Feb 7th. I know through the FMLA ( family medical leave act) I receive 12 weeks of unpaid leave and they I believe still have to keep my insurance. I feel like Im being taking advantage of. I have been a dedicated employee for three years and feel they are just trying to get me off their insurance because it is costing them money. Im not sure of any of the laws here in Ohio I just want to protect myself. I do want to go back to work but I need to get it ok'd by my doctor. I feel like they are going to screw me over and I have worked very hard for them and I don't need the added stress and harassment while in recovery. Any Ideas or anyone know the laws for medical leave? Thank you in advance for any comments and support. Katie

 

[xJillx]

Katie, I don't have any advice, but I wanted to let you know I am so sorry about your situation. Our health care system stinks! And stressing about it is not what you need right now!
But let me ask you, do you like your job and plan on returning when you are well? If so, I would express that to your employer and note you are allowed your time to heal thanks to the FMLA. They my not like to hear it, but it's true, and you are protected by the law. However, if it really rubs them the wrong way, they may not give you a warm welcome back . You may have to feel them out, but a serious conversation is needed. I wish you luck!

 

[katiebel]

Thanks Jill, I do like my job most of the the time... Now I am havng hard feelings because I feel like my boss's wife is blaming me for the insurance rise. Plus their are alot of fumes in their - prob not good for my health or anyone's. I just am hurt cause I have done alot for them and I know I'll have my job back because I am well liked their. But I feel resentment for them trying to get me off their insurance in a subtle way and being nice to me to my face when I know they have an alterery motive. It just Stinks!!!!

 

[xJillx]

I completely understand. I would be hurt, too. But if you can find a way to keep your job and insurance, I would suggest trying to put those feelings aside. CD is too expensive to be w/o insurance! However, you can always secretly keep an eye out for another job in the meantime!

 

[katiebel]

I am keeping my job and am looking for something else but I have to make sure their insurance will cover my CD before I start any new job. I am waiting for clearence from my dr. to go back to work , even if I start out a few hours a day and take it slow. I just can't believe how some people can be so unconsiderate especially how much I have put into my job.