If I have used up all my accrued vacation, sick, and other accrued leave, and have exhausted all my Family and Medical Leave and Oregon Family Leave, but my doctor says I am still not ready to return to work, what are my options?

It is important that you stay in touch with your supervisor, your agency HR, and your steward if you are in this situation. Be sure to respond to any letters or emails or telephone calls you receive from your employer.

1.  If you and your medical provider believe that with more time, you will be ready to return to work, you can request to be on an authorized leave without pay. Authorized leaves without pay are granted at management’s discretion.  
2. You may be able to receive Hardship Leave (See Article 40 – Higher Ed contract) if other employees have donated their accrued vacation leave or compensatory time for you to use as sick leave. You can also use Hardship Leave while still covered under FMLA/OFLA if you have exhausted other leave.
3. You may request a medical separation, which is a voluntary resignation for medical reasons.   With a medical separation, you will leave State employment in good standing. With a medical separation, you would be eligible for reemployment within 2 years following your separation.   This means that with agency approval, you can be employed at the same agency in the same or lower classification. The State does not have to hold or guarantee a job for you.