Many companies are facing the same problem. The costs of health insurance to cover their employees are always increasing. To prevent the costs of health insurance from rising, some companies decide to avoid hiring job candidates with potential health risks because employees with health problems cost their employers thousands of dollars per year in insurance claims, increased premiums, and missed workdays. The problem is that according to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, employers are not allowed to ask job candidates their weight, height, and whether they drink, smoke or have a health issue. One more thing to consider is the fact that people that are morbidly obese and have chronic health problems are protected under the Americans with Disabilities Act. Smokers are not protected under the Americans with Disabilities Act, but their smoking habit may cause health problems such as cancer, heart diseases, or emphysema. These health problems require accommodations according to the law.
[Read the rest of this entry...]