How to approach job hunt knowing you may have surgery in the immediate future?

leo77

Regular Member

Joined : Jul 2017

Posts : 105

Posted 8/23/2017 9:00 PM (GMT 0)

Hi all,

I graduated with my Computer Science degree (had to graduate in the summer instead of Spring to complete additional units) about 3 weeks ago. I have also been a GERD sufferer for about 4-5 years, with it seeming to get worse lately.

As I believe I've stated in previous threads, my gastroenterologist and surgeon suggested surgery (Toupet fundoplication & HH repair). I will be getting a manometry, which I am pretty apprehensive of, on September 5th.

The time that I would be able to have the surgery performed would be probably 1.5 months from the completion of the manometry. I would like to apply to a lot of jobs and go on interviews, but I'm not really sure how to bring this up to potential employers (especially if things get serious in the hiring process). I fear that knowing that I might need this done would scare off some of them, so I'm not sure if I should tell them, or if I should tell them, but phrase it a certain way. I guess I should also add that I'm not 100% sure I will get the surgery, only that I'm "leaning" towards getting it.

Appreciate the help!

straydog

Forum Moderator

Joined : Feb 2003

Posts : 19850

Posted 8/23/2017 11:33 PM (GMT 0)

leo, under the law an employer cannot question you about your health. Personally, I would not mention this when interviewing for a position. Now, if something comes a long & you are offered a position that you want, you have a choice of being honest & upfront or not. I think until you are definite about having surgery I do not see the need to discuss it. You run a potential of being a liability to a new employer rather than an asset. Keep in mind taking a new job & being there shortly & having to take time off may get you booted out the door too. You may be better served to get your health in order before looking for a job.

Take care.

✚ New Topic ✚ Reply