FMLA Coverage for Diagnostic Tests: What You Need to Know

Yes, diagnostic tests are covered under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA). The FMLA is a federal law that allows eligible employees to take job-protected, unpaid leave for specific medical reasons, including their own serious health condition or to care for a family member with a serious health condition.

Diagnostic tests are considered a part of the treatment process for a serious health condition, and are therefore covered by the FMLA. This includes tests that are necessary to determine the cause of a medical condition, as well as tests that are necessary to monitor the progress of a medical condition.

If you need to take time off from work for a diagnostic test, you are entitled to FMLA leave. You must provide your employer with sufficient notice of your need for leave, and you must provide medical certification that supports the need for leave. Your employer must then grant your request for leave, and must not retaliate against you for taking leave.