Sicknotes.How much information is needed and is absence confidential?

[whatisforteamum]

We were discussing this at work.How much info is needed without lying about the real reason.
.I have recently been to the GP for meno symptoms and recently had some bladder issues.The GP has examined me and went me to the hospital for a scan and blood tests.
The thing is my workplace is male dominated which is fine.It also is the culture to be in work at all times( I am guilty of this too) so the boss want to know why anyone were ever off any reasons that makes it genuine.Also one manager is young and a gossip.I would be mortified if certain personal details came out to the team.
Besides I think the tests are to rule out cancer which is sensitive to me as both parents had it one was my late df.
Anyone know where I stand regarding possible absence.

Everyone is very young.Except me.

Just say you need time off for scan/tests and if they ask what for, say you don’t really want to go into it. If you are off ill and need self cert, just be as general as possible. Likewise of you get signed off by a GP, I am sure they can put something sensitive.

Those saying only HR should know the reason are wrong. I work for the LA and your line manager would know the reason and their line manager. They need to know why to know if you need adjustments and or how long you will or may be off. We also have to tick a box against the absence to signify a general reason so abdominal/back pain/cold&flu etc. This can be seen by the payroll team and the line manager and their manager. Noone should be gossiping or telling colleagues though. That is not on at all. If you have concerns someone might tell others, ask them, not to.

Thank you all for your replies.