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UW Pediatrics

Faculty Paid Sick, Medical, or Family Leave

University of Washington Human Resources (“UWHR”) administers medical, parental, military, and domestic violence leaves of absence. Faculty sick leave is also administered by UWHR. For information on guidelines, eligibility, and the request processes, go to UW HR Leaves page.

What is FMLA?

The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), a federal law, protects you from negative impacts to your job when you take time off or a leave of absence for any of the following reasons:

  •  A serious health condition, either yours or a family member’s
  • Prenatal medical care or incapacity due to pregnancy and/or delivery
  • Time to bond with your new baby or newly placed adopted or foster child
  • Qualifying activities (exigencies) related to a family member’s military active duty
  • A serious injury or illness of a family member who is a current member of the armed forces or a veteran

The University determines when to designate a leave as “FMLA” based on the facts of each individual situation. When we know facts that indicate your leave of absence might be covered under FMLA, we are required to inform you of your rights under this law. You are responsible for providing enough information so that the University can make the appropriate determination.

This policy applies to all University faculty.

Per the Faculty Sick Leave Policy, faculty may be eligible for up to 90 calendar days of paid sick leave (UW Faculty Code Section 51-1).

Paid Sick Guidelines 

  • Must be authorized by a healthcare provider
  • May not exceed 90 calendar days per academic year during the period July 1 to June 30
  • Limited to 90 calendar days per illness, disability, or treatment for which a leave was granted
  • Paid sick leave is taken in full day increments and partial days will be counted as such
  • May be taken continuously or on an intermittent basis

Paid sick leave is usually taken at the same time as Family & Medical Leave Act (FMLA). Leave beyond what is authorized by a healthcare provider is considered leave without pay.

Paid Sick Leave Eligibility for Non-Birth Parent

Faculty paid sick leave is now available for non-birth parents who are caring for the birth parent (their spouse or partner) following delivery, as certified by the birth parent’s healthcare provider. Faculty, and other academic personnel who are eligible for faculty paid sick leave, can apply for this leave benefit by following the process to request leave to care for a family member. This allows a Faculty Member to take Family Medical Leave and receive paid sick time, to care for their spouse or a birthing family member, if certified by their healthcare provider.

FMLA and Paid Sick Leave Request Process

You may request paid sick leave by submitting the appropriate FMLA form. Please refer to the form for instructions on completing and submitting documentation.

Healthcare provider certification forms