Markus Brauer

The Push for Health Leave: Why “Sick Leave” may be harming the working class of America

Mentor: Shawna Sisler, PHD, MS, MA, MAPP, RN, C-PNP-PC

Department: College of Nursing

This study investigates the impact of language and the framing of “sick leave” policies on employees’ willingness to seek medical care and utilize health benefits. Using an anonymous Qualtrics survey distributed to Utah-based employees in Fall 2024, the research explores employees’ perceptions of valid reasons for using sick leave, appropriate reasons for taking time off for personal or family health, and potential gaps between official policies and employee understanding. Key objectives include analyzing differences between perceptions of “sick leave” and “health leave,” identifying discrepancies between employee views and leadership perspectives, and examining whether changing terminology could enhance benefit utilization. Expected outcomes include insights into how language affects employee behavior regarding health-related time off, identification of areas for improving health literacy education, and data-driven recommendations for enhancing communication and utilization of health benefits. Ultimately, this research seeks to inform future studies and potential legislative changes in health leave policies, contributing to improved employee health and well-being while guiding the development of more effective sick leave policies and communication strategies in Utah workplaces.