Letter

October 22, 2024

Metropolitan Life Insurance Company
Attn: Mr. Nathanael Pierre, Senior Short-Term Disability Claim Specialist
MetLife Leave Specialist, Ms. Inelyz Martinez
Ms. Melton, Cox Communications, HR Services

Dear Mr. Pierre, Ms. Martinez, and Ms. Melton,

I am writing on behalf of Thomas Coates to provide a clinical update, outline necessary accommodations, and recommend a coordinated return-to-work strategy tailored to his health needs. This letter reflects collaboration with Mr. Coates’s care team, including his Primary Care Provider (PCP) and Cardiologist, and serves to complement and reinforce their treatment plan, ensuring a holistic approach that supports his recovery and smooth reintegration into the workplace.

Medical Background and Current Health Status

Mr. Coates is receiving ongoing treatment for ADD, Depression, Anxiety, and cardiac issues. His heart condition, combined with thyroid imbalances, can influence emotional regulation and cognitive function, compounding challenges related to his attention disorder. These physiological and behavioral factors interact to heighten the impact of workplace stressors and require coordinated management between therapeutic, behavioral, and medical care. This integration is essential to ensuring Mr. Coates's recovery, stability, and long-term success in his role.

Recommended Return-to-Work Plan

The following recommendations are in addition to, and not intended to replace or preclude any accommodations already provided or recommended by Mr. Coates’s PCP. Where these recommendations align with prior accommodations, they should be treated as a reiteration for clarity and consistency. Any additional accommodations suggested here are meant to complement those outlined by Mr. Coates's healthcare providers, ensuring that all aspects of his well-being are addressed.

Phased Return:

A gradual return over 4-6 weeks will allow Mr. Coates to reacclimate without undue stress. This period will include frequent opportunities for Mr. Coates to report his progress, current abilities, and any challenges he encounters.

Remote Work:

Remote work is key and will enable Mr. Coates to manage his health needs efficiently while continuing to perform his job responsibilities.

Workplace Modifications:

Scheduled Breaks: Periodic breaks throughout the day to manage fatigue and alleviate stress.
Noise-Canceling Headphones: High-quality headphones to reduce sensory overload and maintain focus.
Reduced Stress Exposure: Adjustments to responsibilities to limit high-stress tasks during the initial return phase.

Ongoing Monitoring:

Regular evaluations during the phased return period to ensure Mr. Coates’s health remains stable. Coordination between MetLife, Cox Communications, and his providers may be necessary if adjustments to accommodations are required.

Accommodations Based on Health Conditions

Flexible Scheduling: Adjustments to work hours as needed to accommodate fluctuations in fatigue, anxiety, or medical appointments.
Mental Health Breaks: Scheduled breaks, especially during high-stress situations, to maintain mental well-being.
Workplace Support: Regular check-ins with HR or a designated support person to facilitate seamless reintegration.
Support for ADD Management: Clear prioritization of tasks and responsibilities to prevent overwhelm and promote productivity.

Mr. Coates has consistently demonstrated a high level of responsiveness and a genuine commitment to engaging in the accommodations process. Despite encountering difficulties along the way, he remains dedicated to working collaboratively with both Cox Communications and MetLife. These challenges have impacted his health and financial well-being, making it necessary to seek the support of advocates to help ensure his rights are upheld. Looking ahead, he can expect continued support to foster a positive path forward and ensure his needs are met with care and fairness.

Conclusion and Next Steps

Mr. Coates is committed to returning to work under conditions that align with his health needs and ADA rights. I look forward to your collaborative efforts in integrating his medical and therapeutic needs with appropriate accommodations. With your support, I am confident that Mr. Coates can successfully reintegrate into the workplace in a sustainable manner.

Please note that while I remain actively engaged in supporting Mr. Coates, all further communication regarding his case should be directed to him. I am available to provide insight or assistance, as needed, to ensure Mr. Coates’s return to work is managed effectively and in full compliance with applicable regulations.

Sincerely,
Susan Masterson
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Trauma-Certified