Research Report Paid medical leave research: What we know and what we need to know to improve health and economic well-being in the United States
Jack Smalligan, Chantel Boyens

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.
Research and Evidence Health Policy Work, Education, and Labor Family and Financial Well-Being Tax and Income Supports Research to Action Upward Mobility
Expertise Social Safety Net Wealth and Financial Well-Being Workforce Development Labor Markets Families Health Care Coverage, Costs, and Access Reproductive and Maternal Health Upward Mobility and Inequality Aging and Retirement
Tags Social Security Older workers Employment and income data Disability and long-term care Public health Family care and support Mobility Work supports Disability Insurance Family and medical leave Disability equity policy