Sickness Absence Management Policy

24.Elective Surgery

1. 24.1.'Elective surgery' is surgery that is not medically necessary and can include cosmetic surgery or dentistry purely to enhance appearance. For elective procedures, for example, cosmetic surgery, eye laser treatment, and so on - employees must use annual leave, flex, unpaid leave to cover the procedure itself.
2. 24.2.There is no entitlement to occupational sick pay for such procedures; however, if as a result of the procedure, employees are subsequently unfit to attend work, this should be reported and recorded as sickness absence. Employees will require a fit note to cover this period of absence.
3. 24.3.If employees choose to undergo elective surgery, this should be arranged at times causing the least impact to the service. Employees will need to discuss this with their line manager in order to gain permission for the time off and to discuss how this will be covered - for example - annual leave, or unpaid leave etc.