Analysis of Sick Leave Utilization in Israel's Labor Market

A recent analysis of sick leave utilization among Israeli workers in 2025 reveals complex trends that challenge common perceptions about absenteeism in the labor market. The study, conducted by Hilan Value and led by Prof. Assaf Avrahami, examined data from thousands of workers across various sectors, highlighting the relationship between job characteristics and absenteeism.

The Jerusalem Post

The analysis indicates that one-third of surveyed workers did not take any sick leave during the year, with an average of 7.6 sick days reported. This figure positions Israel in a middling range compared to OECD countries, where average sick leave varies from 3 to 20 days. Notably, sick leave utilization tends to increase as the weekend approaches, contradicting the belief that Sundays are the most common days for reporting sick. In fact, sick leave reports drop by 15.5% around religious holidays, suggesting that employees return to work feeling rejuvenated after breaks.

The Jerusalem Post

A significant insight from the study is the correlation between job flexibility and attendance. Workers with the option to work from home exhibit lower absenteeism rates. However, this trend raises concerns about "sick attendance," where employees work while unwell, potentially impacting their long-term health and productivity. The findings prompt a discussion on fostering a healthy organizational culture that balances flexibility with genuine concern for employee welfare.

The Jerusalem Post

The data also reveals interesting demographic trends regarding sick leave. Contrary to expectations, employees without young children reported higher sick leave utilization compared to those with children. This suggests that parental responsibilities may not significantly drive absenteeism; instead, commitment to family could enhance attendance even when employees are slightly ill.

The Jerusalem Post

The analysis identifies the public sector, particularly central and local government, as having the highest rates of sick leave utilization. These sectors often involve direct public interaction and limited remote work options, increasing exposure to illness and reducing the ability to work when unwell. Additionally, employees in middle pay grades reported higher sick leave, potentially reflecting job characteristics and economic pressures that discourage absence among low- and high-paid workers.

The Jerusalem Post

The findings underscore the need for organizations to reassess their approach to sick leave and employee health. By understanding the nuances of absenteeism, companies can develop policies that promote both worker well-being and productivity. The study advocates for a balanced approach that recognizes the importance of job flexibility while addressing the potential downsides of sick attendance.

The Jerusalem Post

Prof. Assaf Avrahami emphasized the complexity of sick leave patterns, stating, “The data before us paint a much more complex picture than the common conceptions of the labor market in Israel.” He called for an in-depth discussion on creating a healthy organizational culture that prioritizes employee welfare.

The Jerusalem Post

• “The data before us paint a much more complex picture than the common conceptions of the labor market in Israel,” — Prof. Assaf Avrahami, CEO of Hilan Value

The Jerusalem Post

• “The phenomenon of ‘sick attendance’, that is, working in a sub-optimal state of health, can affect output and employees’ health in the long term.” — Prof. Assaf Avrahami

The Jerusalem Post

This comprehensive analysis of sick leave utilization in Israel provides valuable insights into the labor market dynamics, emphasizing the need for organizations to adapt their policies to foster a healthier work environment.

The Jerusalem Post