Originally Posted by Professor

Denny,

Tried to turn this around as soon as I saw it.

So, first off there is not now nor is there any release of you medical records. Ever. That release is so that the doctor can communicate with DHS.

Thats not how I read it. "Medical Information" says to me anything the DHS requires relating to my sick absence. THAT opens up a whole can of worms in my estimation. Here is the language:

A medical release will be limited to a written authorization for release of medical 16 information (release), provided the release is limited toto the DHS for: 1a. the specific sickness for which the pilot claimed sick leave, and 2b. the day(s) on which the pilot claimed sick leave and the consecutive day(s) off immediately preceding and succeeding the day(s) on which a pilot claimed sick leave.

This information can be required if verification has been required OR sought.

So, for example let us say that you pulled your back out on tuesday.

You have a trip on Thursday.

You are hitting day 15 on Thursday to call in sick.

Your doctor sends a verification to DHS that says, "back pain".

DHS asks for more information, specifics.

Preceding days come into play because you went to see your doctor on Tuesday. Your sick count starts Thursday.

DHS gets another note from your doctor that says,"Denny came to me for a back strain, I prescribed him pills that prohibit him for flying for a few days, expected return on Saturday."

That is the extent of the verification.
And that return date is not a binding date. Its just an idea of your return to work only.

Hope that helps.