I live in PA and my employer does offer FMLA for up to 12 weeks. I reviewed the paperwork and it appears that my doctor determines how long I get FMLA for. My HR person told me to have him document the full 12 weeks. But I just found out today that he won't sign off on any more than 6 weeks for a vaginal delivery and 8 for CS. Has anyone else encountered this or are most docs willing to sign off on 12 weeks? This is an unpaid leave (which I understand) so I don't get why my doc cares - it's not like I'm asking him to sign off on getting short term disability for longer than necessary. I thought part of the reason for FMLA was for the birth and care of a child. Does anyone know of any way to get around this or if there is something else I should be saying to him? TIA for any help you can provide.
I am in PA (Philadelphia) My OB's office asks for the paperwork for your employer and the amount of time you want to take off and fills out the paperwork accordingly.
I know for STD vaginal its 6 weeks, and 8 weeks c-section but I was still able to get the Dr. to sign off on 12 weeks with no issue. Maybe ask why?
Thank you for your feedback ladies. I don't get why he's being so difficult about this. I'm an emotional mess in general right now and this isn't helping - so I appreciate your responses and help.
FMLA allows 12 weeks for birth and bonding - birth and bonding is different than other medial leaves and it's up to you. Your doctor will only do 6 weeks for delivery (8 CS) for disability pay or even salary continuation. Your HR department should understand that birth and bonding is your choice, not the doctors.
Your OB signs off 6 weeks for vaginal delivery or 8 weeks for c section. Regardless of how you deliver, you can take up to 12 weeks off with your job protected by FMLA. You make the decision on those 12 weeks, not your OB.
I'm also in pa. I was told the dr signs off on the std portion even if std isn't available (ie, 6 weeks vaginal, 8 weeks c/s) then HR handles documenting the remaining 4-6 weeks based on company policy. So if it's that you use sick and vaca days after std then unpaid, they handle that, not the dr.
Your OB signs off 6 weeks for vaginal delivery or 8 weeks for c section. Regardless of how you deliver, you can take up to 12 weeks off with your job protected by FMLA. You make the decision on those 12 weeks, not your OB.
Re: Anyone familiar with FMLA?
Emma Rose
Born 3.11.14
8lbs 14oz, 21.5 in
I know for STD vaginal its 6 weeks, and 8 weeks c-section but I was still able to get the Dr. to sign off on 12 weeks with no issue. Maybe ask why?