The article discusses the conditions under which an employee on sick leave can take a vacation. It emphasizes that sick leave guidelines may restrict travel, especially after serious health issues, and highlights the necessity of CPAM authorization for trips outside one’s department. Employees must notify their employer and the CPAM about their holiday plans to avoid penalties or loss of benefits. It suggests obtaining medical documentation to support vacation requests, enhancing the chances of approval.
Summer can feel endlessly long, especially if you’ve been sidelined from work due to a serious injury. It’s tough seeing colleagues enjoy their vacations on social media while you’re stuck at home. With your health in a fragile state, you might wonder: can you actually take a vacation while on sick leave?
The answer isn’t straightforward and really hinges on your specific circumstances. First and foremost, confirm that your sick leave allows you to leave your residence. According to Fabien Duffit-Dalloz, a lawyer specializing in labor law, “In certain instances, especially with severe injuries or illnesses, your doctor might explicitly prohibit any travel.” If that’s the case, any vacation plans will be out of the question.
However, if your medical leave permits you to leave home—either during designated time frames or freely—you can enjoy your time off, but within certain limits. If your travel plans are within the same département as your home, you should be fine. Just remember to “inform your employer and the CPAM of your holiday destination, in case a doctor needs to visit you for a follow-up,” as explained by the expert.
Authorization from CPAM is Essential
Things get trickier if you intend to travel to a different département or abroad. In such cases, you’ll need to obtain prior approval from the CPAM. “They can deny your request and thus prevent you from vacationing outside of your living area,” Maître Duffit-Dalloz emphasizes. Ensuring you follow the rules is crucial, as any oversight could lead to serious ramifications during an inspection. Your employer might demand the continuation of your salary, potentially for the entire duration of your sick leave, according to Duffit-Dalloz. Moreover, sneaking away might also result in the loss of daily allowances from Social Security.
The consequences can extend even further. “An employee vacationing away from home without CPAM’s consent could be compelled to reimburse all benefits already received from Social Security,” the expert warns. For instance, an executive on sick leave for three months, earning 2,500 euros gross monthly, could owe back more than 3,500 euros if the Assurance maladie unearths their secret getaway.
To navigate these regulations wisely, it’s best to adhere strictly to the rules. To improve your chances of having your vacation request greenlit, Duffit-Dalloz advises: “Consider obtaining a statement from your treating physician to accompany your request to the CPAM, highlighting the necessity for a restorative trip or some time in nature.” Such medical endorsements often weigh heavily in your favor.