Kuwait's Civil Service Council has confirmed that government employees' medical leave for periodic check-ups at public hospitals is not related to their standard four monthly leave days. Each type of leave is governed by its own set of regulations.

According to official sources, if the Ministry of Health's Medical Authority determines that an employee requires regular appointments—whether daily, every other day, or weekly—then the employee’s supervising authority is obligated to grant leave for these visits.

Medical leave can be granted for various treatments, including but not limited to:

• Physiotherapy sessions
• Obstetrics and gynecology appointments
• Dental care
• Other necessary follow-up medical visits

To qualify, employees must submit official documentation from the Ministry of Health, affirming the necessity of these appointments. This documentation must align with legally approved timelines and follow all procedural guidelines.

Direct supervisors are responsible for monitoring the proper use of medical leave. Any misuse or failure to comply with guidelines may result in disciplinary action. However, taking medical leave does not impact the employee’s salary, ensuring that health needs are met without financial penalty.

In addition to medical leave, government employees are entitled to up to four days or 12 hours of regular leave per month. This leave may be used at the beginning, during, or end of the workday. If an employee is unable to sign in or out due to approved leave, they are permitted to record attendance at another appropriate time.

The Sahel app, developed as part of Kuwait’s e-government initiatives, allows employees to apply for up to three days of medical leave per month without visiting a clinic. This digital solution has been praised for streamlining the medical leave process and enhancing accessibility for public sector workers.