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LOA Frequently Asked Questions

What is a leave of absence?

A leave of absence is an extended amount of time away from work that is approved.

Who can take a leave of absence?

Associates who have been employed with Advocate Health Care for a minimum of 90 days may request a leave of absence.

How far in advance should I request a leave of absence?

Associates should request a leave of absence no earlier than 30 days before the anticipated start date.

How do I request a leave of absence?

Associates should first notify their manager or supervisor of their request and then log onto My LOA via the kiosk, or contact HR Direct @ 847-685-1447.

Can I utilize my PTO while on a leave of absence?

Yes, PTO must be used for the associate’s first 10 days of missed work.

What kinds of leaves of absence are available and what are the requirements for each?

  • FMLA with Disability
    • Must have worked 1,250 hours over the past 12 months
    • Must be employed with Advocate Health Care for at least 1 year
    • Must be .8 FTE or above for the past 6 consecutive months (with a pre-existing condition, add an additional 5 days)
    • Eligible for disability pay
    • For associate's own serious medical condition
  • FMLA without Disability
    • Must have worked 1,250 hours over the past 12 months
    • Must be employed with Advocate Health Care for at least 1 year
    • Unpaid - may use PTO
    • Excused time away from work up to 12 workweeks
    • For associate or associate's immediate family member
  • Intermittent FMLA
    • Must have worked 1,250 hours over the past 12 months
    • Must be employed with Advocate Health Care for at least 1 year
    • Unpaid - may use PTO
    • Excused short periods of time away from work that are medically necessary
    • Can be for associate or associate's immediate family member
  • Disability Leave/Non-FML
    • Must be .8 FTE or above for the past 6 consecutive months (pre-existing condition add 5 days)
    • Eligible for disability pay
    • For associate's own serious medical condition
  • Personal Medical
    • Must be employed with Advocate Health Care for at least 90 days
    • Unpaid - may use PTO
    • For associate's own serious medical condition
  • Personal
    • Must be employed with Advocate Health Care for at least 90 days
    • Unpaid - may use PTO
    • Requires manager's approval
    • Non-medical
  • VESSA
    • Can be taken as a leave of absence or intermittently
    • Unpaid - may use PTO
    • Must be or have a family member or a member of the household who is a victim of domestic or sexual violence and seeking medical help, legal assistance, counseling, safety planning or other types of related assistance  
  • Family Military
    • Must have worked 1,250 hours over the past 12 months
    • Must be employed with Advocate Health Care for at least 1 year
    • Unpaid - may use PTO
    • Excused time away from work up to 30 days
    • Associate’s immediate family member has been called to active military duty

What pay is provided if I am eligible for the Disability Income Protection Plan?

Short Term Disability Plan
This plan provides benefits that replace 75% of your income during an illness or injury that lasts up to five months. Benefits may begin after an absence of 10 scheduled workdays or 14 calendar days, whichever comes first. PTO may be used for the first 10 days .

Long Term Disability Plan
This plan provides benefits if you are still disabled after 5 months (when short term disability coverage ends). Long term disability benefits replace 60% of your income for as long as you’re disabled and continue to meet the eligibility requirements of the plan.

Am I still eligible for my insurance coverage with Advocate Health Care while on a leave of absence?

Yes, associates are responsible for maintaining their insurance coverage while on a leave of absence. If on unpaid leave of absence, Paid Time Off/Sick pay (PTO) must be used to pay certain insurance premiums in order to keep benefits current.    

What is the job guarantee for my position while I am on a leave of absence?

Job guarantee is based on the type of leave of absence. Associates eligible for the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) or Victims’ Economic Security and Safety Act (VESSA) have up to a 12 week job guarantee. Associates not eligible for FMLA or VESSA but on Disability or Personal Medical leave of absence will be restored to the same position if they return within 30 calendar days. An extension of this job guarantee may be made on a case-by-case basis. There is no guaranteed reinstatement requirement with a personal leave of absence.