The Civil Service Commission has introduced its 13th amendment to regulations, allowing employees to take a 30-day paid leave when a family member requires medical treatment or long-term care. The new provision, named “Special Medical Needs Leave,” is designed to support staff who need to attend to the health of their loved ones.
Who Qualifies for the Leave?
Under the updated rules, employees can apply for the leave if their mother, father, spouse, child, sibling, half-sibling, or legally dependent individual is undergoing medical treatment for a long-term illness or condition. The leave is granted under the scenarios outlined in Article 188 (a) 1 and 2 of Civil Service regulations.
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Clause 1: Covers situations where employees cannot report to work due to their own ill health.
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Clause 2: Provides guidance on Sick Leave, requiring employees to notify their supervisor prior to or within one hour of reporting time.
Even employees who have not completed a full year of service are eligible to apply for the Special Medical Needs Leave.
Documentation Required for Approval
To qualify for the 30-day leave, employees must provide:
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Proof that the individual has a chronic or long-term illness or requires extended treatment.
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Details of the type of illness and the duration of treatment.
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A medical certificate issued by a Health Ministry-registered institute or, for treatment abroad, a certificate from a licensed foreign medical professional recognized by their government.
Approval of the leave will be at the discretion of the Civil Service Commission, provided all requirements are met.
Changes to Employee Release Regulations
The amendment also clarifies procedures for employee release due to medical incapacity. Employees who are completely unable or unable to work for an extended period may be released from their positions. Approval requires a stamped medical document from a Health Ministry-registered institute or, for foreign treatment, a certificate from a recognized medical institute in the respective country.
