Many employers have short-term disability. Usually it entails only being out of work for no more than 6 or 8 weeks at a time. When on short-term you collect a percentage of your pay up to a certain amount of money. It also depends on how long you have worked for your employer in their way of figuring your percentage.

You do not need to tell your employer the reason for your medical leave. But you will need a doctors note explaining that the leave is medically necessary. I believe in most cases of short-term disability, the employer must hold your job for you.

If you need longer time off, there is the FMLA, or Family Medical Leave Act in which you can take long term disability. Your employer may also have that kind of insurance, but you will have to inquire with your Human Resources Dept regarding any kind of leave. If you take long term disability, the employer can replace you in your position, but can agree to give you some kind of position when you are ready to return. It does not have to be the same position or pay.

Your best bet is to speak with your Human Resources Dept. for the companies policies on medical leaves. Like I said, you do not need to explain your medical reasons, just supply proof from your doc that you should be on leave. Each state has different employment laws along with following federal laws.

I wish you much luck, peace and healing in your process.