Background Screening - Health Form

Hi fellow monkeys,

For background: I received an offer from a BB, and as part of the background screening, I've been asked to complete a health form. The health form contains detailed questions around my health over my lifetime, including historic sick absence. Unfortunately I had recent long-Covid complications (several months work absence) from which I have recovered. Ideally I would prefer to not disclose this as I feel there is a risk to the offer being pulled due to concerns of not being able to work long hours / in a high-stress environment or a risk of potential future absences when I get Covid again.

I was wondering whether anyone has been in a similar situation and had any advice. In particular:

- Can a new employer gain access to a prospective employee's medical record at former employer(s) or GPs?

- Can a new employer request any sick leave taken from an old employer?

- Am I obliged to answer all questions truthfully with a risk of the offer being pulled?

In my home country Italy such health checks are not standard practice. Any advice is very appreciated, thanks