When a worker is on medical leave, many questions arise about what is allowed and what isn’t during this period. One of the most common questions is whether traveling while on leave is possible, and many readers may be in Alicante planning summer getaways. The answer isn’t simple and depends on several factors.
Primarily, it is essential to understand that medical leave is mainly aimed at the recovery of the worker from an illness or injury. During this time, the employee is expected to take all steps necessary to aid recovery, which means following medical instructions and avoiding activities that could worsen health or delay healing.
As seen on the social media post from a popular legal account with a large following, traveling while on medical leave is described as a myth by some, while others acknowledge there are conditions to meet. The idea often cited is that there is no law prohibiting travel, but certain requirements must be respected.
In this regard, a labor attorney explains that what can affect the leave is removing the medical certificate if a person engages in activities that harm recovery, such as taking a trip, engaging in strenuous physical activity, or working for another employer.
In other words, the lawyer notes that travel, leaving the home province, or taking a short trip may be permissible, provided that the individual attends their primary doctor for checkups and keeps medical appointments with the insurer.
Can I lose my medical leave if I travel?
Yes, the medical leave, or temporary disability, can be lost if any of the situations listed in the general social security law are met.
1. The right to the subsidy for temporary disability may be denied, canceled, or suspended:
a) When the beneficiary has acted fraudulently to obtain or maintain this benefit.
b) When the beneficiary works for themselves or for another person.
2. The right to the subsidy may also be suspended when, without reasonable cause, the beneficiary rejects or abandons the indicated treatment.
3. Absence from any medical appointments arranged by the social security service or its collaborating insurers for examination and medical recognition will lead to the provisional suspension of the right, to determine whether the absence was justified. The procedure for suspension and its effects will be regulated by regulation.