Paid medical leave is a benefit that allows individuals to take time off from their jobs while continuing to receive their wages and salaries to address their own serious medical condition that limits their ability to work. The term “medical leave” generally refers to leave that lasts weeks or months. Research suggests that paid medical leave could affect economic outcomes by reducing income volatility, helping workers to return to employment after taking leave, reducing productivity loses due to presenteeism, and supporting greater labor supply and long-term labor force participation. There are several different mechanisms through which paid medical leave may have an effect on health outcomes. These include improved health management, earlier treatment, greater healthcare utilization, improved income stability, and reduced financial stress.
Read the full report on the Washington Center for Equitable Growth’s website.