I need to define our current sick time policy. We earn one sick day per month worked, accumulative up to 65 days. This sick time is our short term disability program. This was intended for employee only, but with work/family issues, we would like to extend it to include spouse and children as well. However, some employees have sick parents to care for. Can I say immediately family and not include parents? I also need to state that the time is for illnesses only and not for doctor appointments. However, if a doctor appointment (i.e. multiple tests, scans) takes all day, should sick time cover that day? I need some direction and guidance. Thanks in advance!

Liesl:

We provide approximately the same accrual of vacation. Although we are switching to a PTO plan 1/1/99, our currently policy does allow for the use of 3 sick days per year for family members. This would include parents. If Dr. appointments are scheduled in advance, the employee has a choice of using sick or vacation time for those appointments. The same 3 day policy applies for these type of appointments. If you have any other questions, please post or e-mail me directly.

Sheila K