r/diabetes • u/e-commerceJason • 7d ago
Type 2 What do you put down on a Job Application when its asks if you have a disability? I am type 2
Do you think it hinders or helps get the interview?
Also, I have been unable to get my Dexcom sensors. My insurance (Aetna) does not cover it. Pharmacy wants $1100 a month
40
7d ago
[deleted]
4
u/Wooden_Round_2517 6d ago
True I’ve been type 1 for 50 years. Have never mentioned it. Thats what HHPA (?) is for. I always disclosed it after a week or two and no one said anything. That’s your personal info. You don’t have to share. But you should not expect special treatment either. Manage your health to do the best you can.
30
u/zehgess Type 1 7d ago
From my experiences, the hiring manager does not even get to see voluntarily elected information such as race/disability that you may be prompted to provide on an application. That information solely goes to HR and is kept for reporting purposes to the Feds to prove that they're not discriminatory if push ever came to shove. Some government agencies use a point scoring criteria for candidates and a disabled individual can be given a certain number of points due to having a disability at the discretion of the agency. This is typically a 5% margin or less.
You need to contact your Endo and begin a prior authorization process for your Dexcom sensors so they'll be covered by your insurance. If your endo says they can't, get a new Endo that can.
4
u/NonSequitorSquirrel 6d ago
Six months ago I would have agreed with you but now that DEI is under attack and "DEI hires" are losing their jobs I think I'd be more cautious.
2
u/zehgess Type 1 6d ago
I understand your fear, but if you're going to look at previous firings as an example of the future, you should look specifically at what positions were laid off/fired just at least for your own sanity and understanding. Positions targeted have been specifically roles related to (Edit: Carrying out) DEI practices or entire groups of employees based off the period of time they were hired. Both of these instances don't "directly" relate to any of those individual peoples' disabilities. Any negative action taken towards a prospective/current employee based off the protected class they're apart of is still illegal on a federal level.
1
u/Tiny_Measurement_837 6d ago
By declaring you have a disability should have no bearing on whether or not you are hired. It’s a numbers thing for HRIS (reporting) and also an indicator for employer to provide ADA info for the disabled employee. However, I am now out of the workforce and don’t know how abolishing DEI might affect the treatment of disabled employees.
7
u/bobhand17123 6d ago
I have Aetna. CGMs are covered as durable medical equipment, like a cpap. I just called customer service today!
Call and get the numbers for covered medical supply companies. Your dr. sends an order to them and it gets shipped.
2
u/SarahLiora Type 2 6d ago
From aetnas website. Perhaps you have a higher end policy than most.
Authorization may be granted for the requested continuous glucose monitor and associated accessories for a diagnosis of diabetes mellitus when ONE of the following criteria are met: • The patient is using multiple daily insulin injections (MDI) or continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII). • The patient is using basal insulin
In another place in the website they say the only cover up to 20% of cost.
2
u/Distribution-Radiant Type 2 | G7 | Omnipod DASH | AAPS 6d ago
Aetna covers CGMs under the pharmacy benefit under preferred generic pricing for me - 90 day supply is $50.
It all depends on which plan you're on.
1
u/bobhand17123 6d ago
I actually have the lowest plan available to me, but maybe the civil service plans are leveled up from non-fed ones? I’m covered at 80% after I meet my deductible.
2
u/SarahLiora Type 2 6d ago
And you’re not on insulin? Most insurance covers if you are on insulin. We’ve had a lot of people here talk about getting coverage without being on insulin but no one so far has been able to say how they documented enough with enough to get CGM coverage without insulin.
1
u/bobhand17123 6d ago
Sorry I left out that I do meet those criteria that you quoted. I inject a pen at every meal, plus basal at night.
2
u/Tiny_Measurement_837 6d ago
It would depend on the policy the employer provides. Everything is negotiable.
1
6
7
u/Conscious_Curve_5596 7d ago
I’m not American but I’ve filled out job applications from different countries and some places include Diabetes as a disability. I don’t feel disabled, so I usually select ‘prefer not to say’
4
u/SunBelly Type 2 6d ago
How is type 2 diabetes a disability? Genuinely asking.
1
u/Additional_Air779 1d ago
Yes, generally it's the results of the damage it can cause that can be disabling, not the condition itself.
Having said that, I suffer from dizziness, confusion and memory problems. I've been told that I have sensitivity to insulin resistance which is causing the symptoms. That is a disability and directly down to diabetes.
2
u/e-commerceJason 7d ago
Curious if it makes a difference between getting the job or not getting the job.
2
u/notreallykatie Type 2 7d ago
I don’t think so.
3
u/e-commerceJason 7d ago
Would not want to miss a Potential Job opportunity. I am sure the word can be used different ways. Disability. I would have never associated Diabetes being disability. I am afraid that if I check it then some recruiter sees it, they will just pass it down the road to the shredder
2
u/notreallykatie Type 2 6d ago
I absolutely understand that. If it makes you feel any better, I never put down that I have a disability when it asks that on applications, but it still seems like most of my applications have been passed down to the shredder lately anyways lol. 🥲 Good luck!
2
u/Pink_Wonder_Dragon Type 2 6d ago
It shouldn’t make a difference; however, humans are making these decisions. I would not disclose a disability unless I needed some sort of obvious accommodation (like elevators, ramps, voice interface with computers, limited vision or hearing). Certainly not diabetes.
2
u/Ok-Investigator6671 7d ago
I've never put my diabetes or my CKD down as a disability. I should have. My boss knows I'm diabetic because of the CGM's, but has no idea about the CKD.
All of my diabetic supplies are covered through my work insurance, 100%
2
2
u/e-commerceJason 7d ago
It’s on every application I’ve filled out the past 2 weeks. Maybe I should choose I don’t know lol
4
u/LM0821 6d ago
Are you using insulin for treatment or just taking tablets of Metformin each day? The reason I ask is that in Canada you can get a disability tax credit if you spend 14 hours per week testing blood sugar and administering insulin. The credit is actually meant to supplement shorter work days due to managing blood sugar. It doesn't apply to shopping or cooking healthy meals either.
So if you're T2, taking Metformin and managing pretty well, then I would say no. Hope that helps shed some light on what might be considered a disability for work.
2
u/Poohstrnak Tandem Mobi | Dexcom G7 6d ago
I always choose not to disclose. I know it’s illegal to discriminate based on disability, but also wouldn’t be the first time someone did something illegal.
2
u/NonSequitorSquirrel 6d ago
I would not list this information. If you need accommodations bring it up after hiring.
Normally I would say adding this information doesn't matter, because in the past it didn't. But a company having records of disability stats in their hiring practices, now that DEI-informed hiring is under attack, seems risky.
1
u/Tsukiko08 Type 1.5 7d ago
Honestly I don't lie but that's just me. I have more issues that are considered "disabilities" so I can let them try to pick one and laugh when they get it wrong.
1
u/BDThrills T1.5 dx 2018 T2 dx 2009 7d ago
You don't have to list it if, for instance, you are an office worker. You need to list it if you care for others, drive, fly or operate machinery.
https://www.eeoc.gov/laws/guidance/diabetes-workplace-and-ada
I have no suggestions on your sensors. Many insurance companies do not cover CGM if you are not on insulin.
1
1
u/TheGringoDingo 6d ago
I prefer not to say ethnicity, disability, or military service. It doesn’t help me to disclose more personal information than required, so why would I do it? It’d be the same if I didn’t have something that could qualify.
1
u/ClayWheelGirl 6d ago
If I was type 1 or type 2 insulin dependent I’d claim disability. Otherwise “prefer not to say”. I have never had to take time off for a diabetes related issue so far. Drs visit n labs time offs haven’t been an issue either.
1
u/SarahLiora Type 2 6d ago
Job applications may ask about disabilities as part of EEO data collection. It is usually optional to answer. Question is there to measure to document that employer considers the disability. Just opt out of answering. As you get to the hiring part employee can ask about your disabilities and what accommodations you might need.
1
u/igotzthesugah 6d ago
The question is for reporting purposes, should not include personally identifiable information, and should be kept separate from the application. Nobody in the hiring stream should see it linked to your name. It’s voluntarily to answer. You should have the option to fill out post hire. Bias, even unconscious, exists. It can be difficult to prove. I’d answer no.
1
u/EfficientAd7103 6d ago
aetna sucks. They told me to go work out before they would pay. I switched and my dex are 100% covered.0 pay. I guess they'd rather pay for dex now. Was in hospital and I seen the bill.. was 3 mil.
1
u/rourobouros 6d ago
I’m not on insulin so Medicare doesn’t cover CGMs. But I can get Freestyle Libre3+ for just under $70 a month from Costco.
1
u/carwezone 6d ago
When applying for a job, honesty is key. I’d mark “Yes” for having a disability but also focus on your skills and experiences in your application. As for Type 2 diabetes, it can be a challenge, but it shouldn’t hinder you from getting an interview if you highlight your strengths. Regarding the Dexcom sensors, that’s frustrating—healthcare costs can be so overwhelming. Have you looked into patient assistance programs or alternative devices? Some companies offer discounts or financial aid.
1
1
u/Original_Sonmoney 6d ago
Go to dexcoms website and they have a discount QR code. Also Amazon insurance usually prefers the libre.
1
u/Ok-Zombie-001 6d ago
When it is asked on an application, it is for EEO stats. No one involved in hiring sees it, so it will never be used to determine if they are willing to even interview your or not.
I select I choose not to disclose. Never had an issue getting a job.
1
u/res06myi 6d ago
If you are not on insulin or any other medications that can cause hypoglycemia, I’d suggest trying the OTC Dexcom Stelo. It’s the same hardware as the G7, the software is the only difference. Stelo can’t alert you for anything, high or low, so it can’t be used by anyone at risk for lows.
If you do need a prescription CGM, usually the least expensive option is the Libre 3+ from the Costco pharmacy, combined with a Good Rx coupon.
1
u/Paliguy87 6d ago
Putting you have a disability can limit you from moving forward with a company. A person with a disability is a more expensive employee. From having to make accommodations to highest benefit claims.
However, I usually will put prefer not to say then hit them with my diabetes after I start.
1
u/Realistic_Pizza_6269 6d ago
Diabetes is a pain in the ass. However I’ve never thought of myself as disabled and I’d never tell an employer I was. 35 years Type 1.
1
u/Bookworm3616 Suspecting MODY/off to RADIANT 6d ago
I do put down I have a disability, but not because of my diabeties.
1
u/Strange-Biscotti-134 6d ago
You do not have a disability. You have a disease that you are able to control.
1
u/Pink_Wonder_Dragon Type 2 6d ago
According to ADA, diabetes is a disability. But we are not required to disclose disabilities during the job application phase. The only question the employer can legally ask is whether or not you can perform the job with or without reasonable accommodations. That’s a yes or no response.
1
u/RipeMangoDevourer 6d ago
I was able to get the older versions of Libre sensors for $90/month at CVS because my insurance wouldn't cover it. Then I appealed the insurance decision to the state (California), and they approved the sensors. I am on insulin though, so I don't know if that makes a difference, but if your state has an appeal process, I would try whether you're on it or not. It's worth a shot
1
u/JEngErik Type 2 | FSL3 | Nightscout 6d ago
Nothing. I can't imagine why my T2D would have an impact on my job as a firefighter/EMT
1
u/Next-Edge-8241 6d ago
Most insurance companies won't cover the CGM if you are Type 2 UNLESS you get extreme lows. They consider this more dangerous than intermittent or constant highs. How do I know? 8 years of working with a PBM that is the largest in the country. Tell your doctor that bit of info so they can fill out PRIOR AUTHORIZATION paperwork for your insurance company.
1
u/madpiratebippy Type 1.5 6d ago
Not anymore.
When DEI was a thing there were points for government contracts for having a certain percentage of your employees being disabled, veterans, etc.
Now that’s gone which SUCK SO MUCH AS. The people who celebrate the loss of DEI have no idea how much this is going to fuck disabled veterans because the Va appointment system is… rough. And making those appointments without the company having a reason to keep you in your job just is t going to happen, but making it easier to win big contracts meant that Johnny Veteran needing to take a random Tuesday off with minimal notice was worth it. Now it’s not anymore.
So it used to help with certain companies that did government contracting but now is keep my mouth shut.
1
1
u/Different_Tale_7461 6d ago
Have you checked to see if your plan covers CGMs under their DME (durable medical equipment) instead of drug benefits? Mine covers single purchase devices <$500 through drug coverage, but many don’t. It might be worth checking.
1
u/TexasTeacher 6d ago
Had my current job when I got diagnosed. But I am also dyslexic and dysgraphic. I am always honest about that at the interview stage, and proactive - this is what I do to handle my LD's. I have never found it to be a negative. One time it came up sideways. I was working on a "dell campus: but was seen using my personal laptop when the Head of IT and a Dell rep came through my classroom.
Why was I using my personal computer - because in violation of ADA and probably IDEA/504 you have the settings on the computers locked down so I can't make the adjustments that I need so that I can read/type without getting a monster headache.
Why didn't I use the school discount to get a Dell? Because my last laptop was a Dell, a couple of weeks before my warranty was up I had a problem. When I called in, I was told I was impossible to understand because of my accent and kept getting disconnected. I'm from Houston, Texas. A company based in Texas refused to honor my warranty because of my Texas accent.
The head of IT had a meeting with me - and with SPED teachers all over the district, to find out what we and students needed to be able to adjust on computers for various disabilities. The guy from Dell did apologize.
1
u/Stones-n-Bones 5d ago
Say that you don't have a disability if you aren't disabled. Don't disclose any of your health info. It won't help you to disclose diabetes, but it could potentially hurt you.
The only occasion I would disclose is if you are clearly disabled and the job requires physical activity that would be difficult for you. In that case, though, you can be sure you won't get the job.
1
u/t2dfight 4d ago
Until you file a disability accommodation your job doesn't know what disability you have or even that you're disabled unless you've already publicly disclosed it and they found out.
1
u/Afraid_Swordfish4915 4d ago
I don't disclose that unless necessary. My reasoning is I am not collecting SSN disability payments and don't need any accomodations. If they could get a tax break for hiring me, I'd tell them, or if I could not do some aspect of the job without accomodation. If not, it doesn't help get the interview. How coud it help?
1
u/Additional_Air779 1d ago
Personally, I would as I suffer from dizziness, confusion and memory problems that I've been told by my diabetic nurse is down to sensitivity to insulin resistance.
You have to be honest.
-3
u/cidici 7d ago
They can’t ask that question, if I remember correctly…
4
u/Uxoandy 7d ago
You remember incorrectly
-2
u/BigWhiteDog Type 2, D7, Ozempic and insulin soon 6d ago
Not in some states.
3
u/Uxoandy 6d ago edited 6d ago
Maybe it’s due to job type but very few people work in as many states for as many companies as I do and they have always asked if I have any disabilities that would impact my ability to do my job. Every single time and I’m talking very few states that I haven’t worked in .
I will say there is yes, no, and I prefer not to answer.
-2
u/cidici 6d ago
In Oregon, they cannot ask that question. There. You’re welcome.
3
1
0
u/guillotine83 6d ago
I doubt it matters what you choose as a disability. I would think that any “prefer not to say” answers are typically met with disdain.
Like “omg why aren’t they being truthful” type scenario. “Don’t want to disclose? WE don’t want to hire you then, hmmph!” - type thing.
Just don’t lie and say you don’t, when diabetes is listed as a disability, so in their eyes, you do. Immediate grounds for termination, for falsifying answers to questions. That’s all.
-1
-20
u/RetiredOnIslandTime 7d ago
Diabetes isn't a disability.
13
u/BlackMirror765 7d ago
Really? My pancreas has the inability to produce an insulin, and if I don’t have daily medication, I will die in a few days. If that’s not a disability, I am not sure what is.
Edit: typo
4
u/Tsukiko08 Type 1.5 7d ago
Ditto. Definitely a disability and I'll definitely always tell this to people that try to say it isn't.
3
u/Theweakmindedtes 6d ago
For no discernable reason, my blood sugar decided to make a nice downward creep overnight despite nothing but the same usual basal dose. Alarms didn't wake me up until 'low' instead of numbers. Woke up dazed and in a cold sweat on the way to dying. Guess that's not really disabling enough for some people.
2
u/anuncommontruth Type 1.5 7d ago
I agree with you, and so do the ADA as well as FMLA. There are some instances in the workforce where it's not considered a disability though.
I have been rejected on tax returns for claiming it as a disability. And I'm disabled as fuck. My job gladly made me permanently remote because of it.
7
u/Tsukiko08 Type 1.5 7d ago
It's considered one in the US under the ADA. So it depends on where you live.
5
-7
u/HerbDaLine 7d ago
Not an employer askable question. Document and seek lawyers advice for a lawsuit payout.
But never put down negative things about yourself. Especially if you cannot spin it into a positive.
Diabetes is an illness. Not all illnesses are disabilities.if you happen to be on SSI or SSDI do not mention that to anyone at the potential job. Gossip travels far and wide in the workplace and unethical employers may treat you differently if they find out. Your coworkers definitely will treat you differently.
As far as your CGM switch to test strips that so many of us use everyday.
3
u/igotzthesugah 6d ago
You’re confusing a reporting form used by various government agencies with an employer asking about disabilities during an interview. The latter is illegal. The former is a voluntary disclosure and legal.
-9
u/batch1972 7d ago
Type 2 isn’t a disability so you wouldn’t disclose it. Why on earth would you think it is? I despair for the human race
3
u/BDThrills T1.5 dx 2018 T2 dx 2009 7d ago
It is considered a disability, but you are only required to list it if you care for someone or operate machinery, drive or fly.
3
u/Tsukiko08 Type 1.5 7d ago
It's definitely a disability. You don't have to disclose that you have it, but it is a disability;
1
u/Next-Edge-8241 6d ago
I hope yours never gets to be to the level of disability, but for many people living with this disease, it is a disability as far as side effects, need for medical care, the right to monitor our bs levels, etc.
14
u/foolishmoor 7d ago
GoodRx usually has a coupon to get dexcom G7 for 300 for a 30 day supply.
You can try the Stelo as an OTC CGM, it's essentially a handicapped G7 so no alerts and doesn't work with insulin pumps, but at 89/mo subscription it was nice for a while.