Form WH-380-F, also known as the Certification of Health Care Provider, is a required form under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) in the United States. This form is used to certify an employee's serious health condition or that of their family member, which qualifies them for FMLA leave. Here is some relevant content for understanding when you need to complete Form WH-380-F:
1. Eligibility for FMLA: Form WH-380-F is necessary when an eligible employee intends to take leave under the FMLA. To be eligible, an employee must have worked for their employer for at least 12 months and have accrued at least 1,250 hours of service in the previous 12-month period.
2. Serious Health Condition: The form is required when an employee or their family member is suffering from a serious health condition that makes them unable to perform their job duties. A serious health condition refers to an illness, injury, or physical or mental impairment that involves inpatient care, continuing treatment, or chronic conditions requiring periodic visits to a healthcare provider.
3. Employee's Responsibility: It is the employee's responsibility to provide the necessary certification from a health care provider when they request FMLA leave. This certification can be obtained by completing Form WH-380-F or by furnishing an equivalent document with the same required information.
4. Timing for Completion: The employee must provide the completed Form WH-380-F to their employer within 15 calendar days of receiving it, unless it is not practicable under the circumstances. When the need for leave is unforeseeable, the employee should provide the form as soon as practicable.
5. Recertification: Employers may require periodic recertification of the serious health condition, generally no more often than every 30 days. If the initial certification period spans more than 30 days, the employer cannot request recertification until that period expires.
6. Confidentiality: It is important to note that all medical information obtained through the certification process, including Form WH-380-F, must be maintained as confidential medical records by the employer. Access to these records must be limited and handled with strict confidentiality in accordance with HIPAA regulations.
Remember, the information provided here is a general guideline. It is always recommended to refer to the official FMLA guidelines and consult an employment attorney or HR professional for specific requirements and guidance regarding Form WH-380-F.