2026 DMEC Annual Conference Recording: Beyond Suspicion: Practical Strategies for Managing Leave Concerns

This session helps employers recalibrate how they assess leave activity by distinguishing intentional wrongdoing, misuse, and lawful but inconvenient patterns. We’ll explore why intermittent absences, evolving medical standards, and incomplete certifications can trigger concern even when employees are acting within their rights. Attendees will also review compliant use of clarification, recertification, and second or third medical opinions without overstepping regulatory boundaries.

Finally, we’ll examine emerging technology tools such as identity verification and event-based monitoring alongside the cultural and compliance risks of mislabeling protected leave, with practical strategies to protect claim integrity while maintaining trust.