When a disability, need for reasonable accommodation, or both are not obvious or otherwise known, an employee or applicant may be required to provide documentation. The Postal Service may request, and the individual requesting an accommodation is required to provide, medical information related to the individual’s disability in order to engage in the interactive process and receive consideration for a requested accommodation.
The Postal Service may also request relevant supplemental medical information if the information the employee or applicant provided does not clearly explain the nature of the disability, including the individual’s physical or mental limitations; the need for reasonable accommodation; or how the requested accommodation will help the individual navigate the job-application process, perform the essential functions of the position, or enjoy workplace benefits and privileges. The Postal Service may, at its own expense, have a medical expert of its choosing review medical information.
If the supervisor or manager deems this step necessary, he or she must consult a RAC. Necessary requests must be made promptly and directed to an appropriate medical professional to do the following:
If medical information is requested, a decision to adopt or deny the requested accommodation must be made as soon as possible, i.e., after information has been received and evaluated and the request for accommodation has been discussed with the employee, absent extenuating circumstances.
