I've been having some health issues over the past 9 months and am considering intermittent FMLA. I've had some appointments out of state. That being said, if I utilize FMLA I don't want them to know the particulars. I'm being considered for a assistant director role and am somewhat concerned if my management team knew the specifics it could (not should) impact my consideration. Frankly, I'd prefer they think I'm using it to care for my parents (who've also had some serious issues as of late).

If I utilize FMLA would they have access to that documentation? For my previous employer I'd assume no, but my current company is relatively small with less than 150 employees. Our HR team is essentially 2 full-time staff and an part-time assistant.

I've googled but seem to get somewhat conflicting results to whether there is any legal protection there. I wouldn't be shocked if our managing director attempted to find out the details based on rumors I've heard from other employees. So I'm debating the risk/reward of utilizing FMLA at all.