I need to go to the doctor sometime in the next two weeks for a somewhat urgent matter. The only specialist in my area is only available between 10-4 on weekdays, and I work 9-5 for a manager who loves to say no to everyone just to feel like he's in control. One of my coworkers was recently let go for getting in an accident and going to the ER during work hours without permission. I'm currently looking for a new job but it's impossible to get any time off to interview so I'm limited to companies that can schedule phone interviews outside the 9-5 window.
I've told my boss that I need to go to the doctor, and he said it has to be outside work hours. If I miss an hour of work he'll fire me. The HR representative I then spoke with said since it's at-will that is a legitimate reason to fire someone, and he's just unreasonable and aggressive with everyone so they don't want to challenge him.
I need health insurance to cover these expenses so quitting isn't a good option.
Going to a different doctor isn't possible, and my doctor can't change his hours. Please don't suggest that.
The thing I'm asking for is how to convince my manager to let me take time off. How can I do that?
I am located in New York state (not NYC).
