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By Nigel Hilton
No one wants to have to go off on long term sick, but unfortunately, it happens all the time. If you are stressed or suffering with a mental illness like anxiety or depression, or if you have a medical condition such as cancer or another serious illness, it is likely that you will have to take at least a few weeks off to recover and recuperate.
Fortunately, there are people who can help you through the process from going off sick to your phased return once you are well.
Your Doctor
Your doctor is the first port of call whether you have a common illness or something more serious that requires treatment . Their initial diagnosis and treatment will put you on the right path to recovery, but they can also write to your employer and explain the situation to them using a letterhead. This will help because your employer will be assured that you are not playing the system and will also be able to put measures in place such as claiming on their insurance to get a supply in for your job.
Your doctor has your best interests at heart so don’t be afraid to talk to them. They are also bound by doctor-patient confidentiality, so they can’t reveal any personal information about you without your consent. Tell them everything you think they need to know and answer all their questions truthfully to help them get to the bottom of your condition and treat you as effectively as possible.
Your Nurse Case Manager
If you need to get your insurance company involved to pay for treatment and to compensate for your lost earnings, a nurse case manager will act as a go between for you and your insurers. Their aim is to make sure that you get the right treatment but as cheaply and efficiently as possible. There shouldn’t be a conflict of interest between you and your nurse manager, but sometimes they can be overzealous in their determination to reduce costs. In this case, you can call a law firm such as DeSalvo Law, who will be able to represent you and ensure that your nurse case manager stays in line.
Your Friends and Family
When you are ill, your family are your greatest source of comfort and support. They will be able to rally around you, helping more around the house or with grocery shopping or just sit with you to watch a film together. There is nothing more lonely than being ill and on your own for a long period of time, so calling in your friends and family will give you a boost.
Though you might feel a lot of pressure to get better soon, especially from young kids who don’t really understand, the most important thing you can do for your family is to look after yourself. There are lots of people who can support them in supporting you too, so try not to worry about being a burden, just concentrate on doing what feels right for you.
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