Does Panic Disorder Affect Hospital Hiring for New Staff?

Will panic disorder affect the hiring of new personnel in hospitals?

I have been attending anxiety/panic disorder outpatient clinics for a long time.
Recently, I was hired as a general clerk at a hospital (not in direct contact with patients), but I am unsure if I will pass the new employee health examination.
The health examination form does not include any specifics related to psychiatry, and when I called HR, they said to come for the examination first.
However, on the day of the examination, I need to fast for 8 hours before the blood test.
If I take medications like Eicosapentaenoic acid or anxiolytics beforehand, will it affect the blood test results? Should I disclose these medications in the self-reported section, even though they are not listed on the form?

Ms. Wang, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/12/21

Dr. Li Jite reply Psychiatry

Due to the fact that the items in a typical employment health examination are usually not too complex, taking the medications you mentioned typically does not affect the results of blood tests.
However, whether you can pass the health examination depends on the regulations of the hiring organization.
Generally speaking, laws stipulate that employment must be treated equally, and employers cannot terminate employees without just cause unless there are special circumstances.
Employers have a corresponding responsibility to maintain the physical and mental health of their employees, and they usually cannot unilaterally affect an employee's right to work based on health factors.
Therefore, you may not need to worry excessively at this point.
However, since medical advice is not based on legal expertise, it is advisable to consult legal professionals regarding your rights.
From a medical perspective, it is important to note that regardless of the physical or psychological challenges we may be facing, as long as we are capable of performing our job duties, the type of challenges we experience or whether we disclose them is usually not an issue.
However, if it involves the perceptions of others, while there may be unfairness in this, we cannot control how others perceive us.
It is best to focus on doing our best at work, and as long as those perceptions do not translate into inappropriate treatment, we can regard them as merely the opinions of others and try not to let them affect us.
I hope this information is helpful to you, and I wish you the best of luck!

Reply Date: 2022/12/21

More Info

Panic disorder, like other mental health conditions, can raise concerns regarding employment, particularly in sensitive environments such as hospitals. However, the impact of such a condition on hiring practices largely depends on the specific policies of the institution and the legal framework governing employment rights in your region.

In the United States, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) protects individuals with disabilities, including mental health conditions, from discrimination in the workplace. This means that employers cannot make hiring decisions based solely on a candidate's mental health history unless it directly affects their ability to perform essential job functions. Since you mentioned that your role does not involve direct patient contact, it is less likely that your panic disorder would be a disqualifying factor for the position you have accepted.

Regarding the pre-employment medical examination, it is common for hospitals to conduct health screenings to ensure that new hires are fit for duty. However, these screenings typically focus on physical health and may not delve deeply into mental health unless there is a specific reason to do so. Since the medical form you received did not include questions about psychiatric conditions, it is likely that your panic disorder will not be a focal point during the examination. If you feel comfortable, you may choose to disclose your condition in the self-report section, but it is not mandatory unless specifically requested.

As for the medications you mentioned—益可寧 (Yikening) and 憂解 (Youjie)—it is essential to consult with your healthcare provider regarding their potential effects on blood tests. Generally, these medications are not known to interfere significantly with standard blood tests, but it is always best to follow your doctor's advice. If you are required to fast for eight hours prior to the blood draw, you should discuss with your doctor whether you should take your medications during that fasting period.

In terms of managing your panic disorder while starting a new job, it is crucial to have a support system in place. Engaging in therapy, whether cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or another form, can be beneficial in developing coping strategies for anxiety and panic symptoms. Additionally, practicing mindfulness and relaxation techniques can help you manage stress as you transition into your new role.
It is also important to remember that many individuals with anxiety disorders successfully navigate their careers. Your ability to perform your job effectively is what matters most. If you find that your symptoms are impacting your work, consider reaching out to a mental health professional for additional support. They can help you develop strategies to manage your anxiety in the workplace.

In conclusion, while panic disorder can present challenges, it should not automatically disqualify you from employment, especially in a non-patient-facing role. Focus on your strengths and capabilities, and seek support when needed. Your mental health is important, and taking proactive steps to manage it will help you thrive in your new position.

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