Medical Leave of Absence Meaning, Eligibility & Rules

A medical leave of absence (MLOA) is a type of leave available to employees that allows them to take extended time off from work in case of serious physical or mental health conditions. Generally, it is a type of medical time off that employees can take for personal health difficulties or to care for a family member with a medical condition or disability.

In essence, a medical leave from work is meant for medical treatments that require longer recovery periods, or for chronic health conditions, without worrying about losing the job. Furthermore, the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) provides up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave per year for certain employees.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1.	What is a medical leave of absence?
Ans.	Medical leave of absence meaning refers to a period of approved medical time off from work that an employee takes due to serious health reasons. However, this can be either for their own medical condition or to care for a close family member with a health issue or disability. Generally, it is granted for extended or unplanned medical situations. Further, it may be unpaid or protected under specific medical leave laws like the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) in the U.S. It is different from regular sick leave or PTO.
Q2.	Who is eligible for a medical leave of absence?
Ans.	Employees may be eligible for a medical leave of absence under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA). To qualify, they must have worked for their employer for at least 12 months. In addition, they should have completed at least 1,250 hours of service during the past 12 months. Furthermore, the employer must have at least 50 employees within a 75-mile radius.
Q3.	How long is a medical leave of absence in the US?
Ans.	In the U.S., the medical leave duration can be up to 12 weeks of medical leave in a year for serious health conditions. Additionally, employers may ask for medical proof and a fitness-to-return certificate. However, job security and health insurance coverage remain in place during the leave.
Q4.	Is medical leave of absence paid or unpaid?
Ans.	It is important to understand the difference between paid vs unpaid medical leave. In the U.S., a medical leave of absence is usually unpaid. However, if an employee’s leave extends beyond six months, they may qualify for short-term or long-term disability benefits. In particular, short-term medical leave usually lasts less than 12 weeks, while long-term medical leave can last for over a year.
Q5.	How do I apply for a medical leave of absence?
Ans.	To apply for a medical leave of absence: 1. First, check the company medical leave policy for eligibility and process. 2. Then, inform your manager or HR as early as possible. 3. After that, submit a written medical leave request letter with the reason and leave dates. 4. Additionally, provide a medical leave certificate and documents if required. 5. Lastly, wait for approval and stay in touch if there are changes.
Q6.	Can I take medical leave for mental health reasons?
Ans.	Yes, you can take medical leave for mental health reasons. Notably, under the FMLA medical leave, mental health conditions like anxiety or depression can qualify for up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave. In addition, your employer may require a medical certificate to approve the leave.
Q7.	Do I lose my job if I take medical leave?
Ans.	No, you do not lose your job if you take medical leave under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), as long as you meet the eligibility requirements. FMLA provides up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave for qualifying medical reasons. Your employer must reinstate you to your original position or an equivalent one once your leave ends. However, if you take leave beyond the FMLA limit or don’t meet eligibility criteria, job-protected medical leave may not apply.