Low-income earners and temporary workers claim sick pay less often, Swedish report says

"The fact that a person uses sick pay less often does not necessarily mean that the person is healthier. On the contrary, we know from other studies that these are people who more often have poorer health. Instead, the lower use may be due to the fact that it is more difficult to use sick pay when you need it," says analyst Per Janson in a press release.

The lower use is also seen among foreign-born people without a permanent job, regardless of income level. However, the difference is particularly clear among those with low incomes.

"Lower use may be related, among other things, to the fact that it is more difficult to be on sick leave without risking one's current or future livelihood," says Per Janson.