Release of Information Authorization Under the HIPAA Privacy Rule, when a release of information is intended for purposes other than medical treatment, healthcare operations, or payment, you'll need to sign an authorization for ROI.
A person acting on behalf or under the direction of the Regulator, must, both during or after his or her term of office or employment, treat as confidential the personal information which comes to his or her knowledge in the course of the performance of his or her official duties, except if the communication of such ...
Information about a person's health and health care is generally considered to be highly sensitive and personal. Therefore, this type of information enjoys statutory and common law protection in South Africa. The common law right of privacy prevents public disclosure of private facts.
Yes, there is no reason why your employer will not be allowed to contact the doctor who wrote a sick note to verify the note at all. The doctor will not be allowed to discuss any of your private medical records or matters with the employer (but that is on the doctor not the employer).
In terms of the Promotion of Access to Information Act (PAIA), 2000 everyone has the right of access (request access) to records which includes access to their healthcare/medical records.
No you don't have to disclose your illness. But you can be required to produce a medical certificate if you take more than 2 consecutive days sick leave.