Understand Your Rights as an Employee with Kidney Disease

Empower yourself by understanding your rights as an employee with kidney disease. Whether you need to take a leave of absence or to adjust your workspace, take steps to learn about your rights and how to exercise them.

Take a Break with a Leave of Absence

If you ever feel like you can’t keep working, think about taking time off. A leave of absence can be very helpful if you need to start dialysis or when you just don’t feel well. Give yourself peace of mind and figure out how to take a leave of absence. Hopefully you will never need it, but you will be glad you made a plan if you do. Look into your company’s sick leave policy and disability insurance and eligibilty under the Family and Medical Leave Act.

• Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
• The National Kidney Foundation®

Know Your Rights as a Worker

People on dialysis have rights under the Americans with Disabilities Act. Your employer may be able to make accommodations that help you stay employed.

• A Guide to Disability Rights Laws – U.S. Department of Justice
• AskJan.org
• Filing a complaint: If you feel your employee rights have been violated or you have been discriminated against, you can file a complaint with your state’s workforce commission or with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).