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Intermediate Formal IVT

FMLA intermittent leave

Time off taken in separate blocks for psychiatric treatment under the Family and Medical Leave Act, allowing employees to attend therapy sessions or manage mental health episodes while maintaining job protection.

Full Definition

FMLA intermittent leave refers to time off taken in separate, non-consecutive periods for psychiatric treatment under the Family and Medical Leave Act. This arrangement allows employees to attend regular therapy sessions, partial hospitalization programs, or manage recurring mental health episodes while maintaining job protection. Unlike continuous FMLA leave, intermittent leave can be taken in increments as small as one hour, making it particularly suitable for outpatient psychiatric care. Employers may require medical certification and periodic recertification for intermittent psychiatric leave.

Usage

Usage note: Requires specific medical justification and cannot be used for routine appointments that could be scheduled outside work hours.

In Context

  • "The patient's employer approved FMLA intermittent leave for twice-weekly therapy appointments." — Insurance documentation
  • "Documentation must specify that intermittent leave is medically necessary for the patient's psychiatric condition." — FMLA certification form

Also known as

intermittent FMLA periodic medical leave

Contrasted with

continuous FMLA leave unpaid leave

Don't confuse with

ADA accommodation short-term disability

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