Copied from another thread because it's that important. I'm not a DAL pilot but feel strongly enough because I've seen the ramifications to share my opinion.

"We have a similar system at ExpressJet to track absences. It uses FMLA criteria to determine whether an absence is excused. There is almost absolute disapproval, not because the absence doesn't qualify but because t's and i's haven't been dotted and crossed. You normally have to follow up and appeal to get an absence approved.

They also used to out-source the function to an "objective" third party; F and H solutions. We are all familiar with them.

Do not allow them to enact this abysmal policy on you."