Conforming a Voluntary Medical Leave of Absence Policy to Recent Interpretations of Disability Law

ABSTRACT

In 2011, Georgetown University worked to revise its medical leave of absence (MLOA) policy to be in conformity with evolving standards and interpretations of disability law as it pertains to university students. The article describes the new policy, which was reviewed and approved by the U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights. Implications are discussed for both Georgetown University and other institutions.

KEYWORDS:

• College counseling center
• disability law
• medical leave policy

Notes

1. I use the term “fairness” here to describe the University’s responsibility and commitment to providing a fair and level playing field for all of its students and not discriminating against students with disabilities.