Employees often use paid sick days for reasons other than actual illness, and these often unexpected absences lower workplace productivity. Experts say that the best way to combat sick leave abuse is to give sufficient leave, clearly state the office rules and create an environment in which workers are committed to their jobs. More companies are merging benefits by consolidating sick, personal and vacation leave into a single paid leave bank.
See "Employers seek healthier ways to approach sick time", Katherine Reynolds Lewis, Chicago Tribune, March 8, 2004