That is why, when you or a family member has a chronic or long-term illness (or a short term illness that may cause you to charge more than 15 days in one twelve month period), it is extremely important that you submit to the Benefits Office in College Hall 314B a doctors note. If you submit a doctor’s note, the University views the absence as excused. If you do not, you may find yourself in a position of being accused of sick time abuse. When/if this happens, you may be issued an HR scripted letter from your supervisor informing you that you must substantiate some portion your past sick absences or you will be required to provide a doctor’s note for all future sick time charged for an undetermined period of time.
If you have any questions, or concerns, please contact one of the Local’s officers for further explanation.
Sick Time FAQs
Q: If I bring in a doctor’s note and the absence is excused, does that mean I don’t get charged the sick time?
A: No. You still get charged the sick time. Sick days that are accounted for by a doctor’s note do not count against you when HR assesses whether or not you have used 15 or more sick days in a 12 month period.
Q: If I am sick with a stomach bug for two days, do I have to provide a note?
A: It depends. The University’s policy only requires a doctor’s note when five (5) or more sick days are used. If you have not been flagged for sick time abuse, then you would not have to provide a doctor’s note for a two day illness. However, if you have used 15 or more sick days in a 12 month period you could be required to provide a doctor’s every time you are absent and use sick time.
Q: How is the 12 month period determined?
A: The 12 month period is determined from the date of the audit, not by the calendar or fiscal year. For example, if you are audited in February 2016, the period starts March 2015.
