After three workdays of absence within a 30-day period, what may the supervisor require before authorizing additional sick leave?

• A. A supervisor's note
• B. An attending physician's medical certification
• C. A self-certification
• D. No certification is required

Answer: (B)

When an employee has been absent for three workdays within a 30-day window, supervisors may require medical documentation from the attending physician before approving additional sick leave. A physician’s medical certification provides objective evidence of illness and the need for continued time off, helping ensure that leave is medically necessary and that the expected return-to-work date is clear. This protects both the employee and the agency by preventing abuse and guiding accommodations if needed.

Surprisingly, a supervisor’s note isn’t treated as medical proof beyond three days, and self-certification typically covers only the initial short absence. No certification would leave the leave without documented justification, which policies often restrict after the third day.