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WLDAYR
Work loss days, past 12 months
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Codes

WLDAYR is a 3-digit numeric variable.

130: Top code for 130+ days (2019-forward)
996: NIU (not in universe)
997: Unknown-refused
998: Unknown-not ascertained
999: Unknown-don't know

Description

WLDAYR reports the number of days the respondent missed work because of an illness or injury in the last 12 months. Responses were reported as a value between 0 and 366. Beginning in 2019, responses are top-coded at 130 (130+ days). Absence due to maternity or paternity leave was not included.

The 1997 Field Representative's Manual describes work loss day as missing more than one-half of the usual work day from a job or business because of illness or injury. Interviewers were instructed to "always probe for an exact number. If the sample adult reports a range or interval, assist the sample adult in making an estimate by probing. For example, you might ask 'Could you give me a more exact number?'"

The universe for this question includes those who worked without pay.

Comparability

Prior to 2019 WLDAYR is fully comparable over time. Beginning in 2019 WLDAYR is top-coded at 130 (130+ days).

The NHIS questionnaire was substantially redesigned in 2019 to introduce a different data collection structure and new content. For more information on changes in terminology, universes, and data collection methods beginning in 2019, please see the user note.

Universe

  • 1997-2018: Sample adults age 18+ who worked during past 12 months.
  • 2019-2020: Sample adults age 18+ who were offered health insurance through the workplace, were not offered health insurance through the workplace, or who refused or did not know if they were offered health insurance through the workplace (EMPHI), or who are not currently working but who had some period of employment in the past 12 months (EMPLAST).
  • 2021-2023: Sample adults age 18+ who were offered health insurance through the workplace, were not offered health insurance through the workplace, or who refused or did not know if they were offered health insurance through the workplace (EMPHI), or who are not currently working but who had some period of employment in the past 12 months (EMPLAST); this includes seasonal and contract workers who worked in the last 12 months.

Availability

  • 1997-2023

Weights