Cabinet approves full-paid one-year leave, amends Article 45 of Civil Service Law
Govt enacts new law that allows up to 18 months leave for Kuwaiti employees supporting patients abroad
The Ministry of Health praised the Cabinet’s approval of a draft decree-law amending Article 45 of the Civil Service Law, allowing Kuwaiti employees to receive special leave with full pay for up to one year to accompany a patient who has the government nod for treatment abroad.
This leave is not deducted from the employee’s regular leave balance and may be extended for up to six additional months without pay.
The amendment follows coordination between authorities and responds to the Ministry’s observations on the humanitarian challenges families face when supporting loved ones during extended medical treatments abroad. The presence of a family member is seen as vital psychological support, boosting patient morale and treatment response.
The Ministry emphasized that the amendment eases the psychological and financial burden previously caused by the six-month leave limit, offering more stability for patients and their families. It also reflects the state’s commitment to patient well-being and the humanitarian values of the national healthcare system.
