Spain faces rising economic impact from medical leave and disability limits

In Spain, medical leave regulations and rising absenteeism are creating significant economic and labor pressures. In the province of León, an average of 9,000 workers are on temporary disability each day, accounting for 7.37% of all potential working hours. This absenteeism results in the loss of over 2.3 million workdays annually in the province alone. The economic impact in León is estimated between 750 and 800 million euros per year when combining Social Security benefits and direct costs to companies.

Nationally, the Association of Health Economics (AES) notes that medical leave costs in Spain are approaching 16 billion euros, making it the second-largest public expenditure after pensions. Factors contributing to the rise in León include an aging workforce and increased cases of mental health issues and musculoskeletal diseases, exacerbated by delays in the public health system.

Regarding regulations, the National Institute of Social Security (INSS) maintains a limit of 545 days (approximately 18 months) for temporary disability. Once this threshold is reached, the employment relationship is subject to temporary suspension while the worker's future status is evaluated by the Disability Assessment Team (EVI). During this period, companies cease Social Security contributions, and the case moves under the management of the INSS.