Days in the sun trumps health benefits

More American workers would rather have more days off than health insurance from their employer, according to a survey by Pew Research Center.

The Washington D.C.-based group surveyed 5,902 workers in February with questions about their current job, experiences in the workplace, and workplace benefits.

Approximately 62% of workers said it’s important to have a job that offers paid time off, compared with 51% of respondents who said having employer-paid insurance is the priority.

For workers who said their employer offers them paid time off for vacation, doctor’s appointments, or to deal with minor illnesses, 48% said they take all the time off provided, while 46% said they take less time off than what’s allowed.

The survey also noted several reasons employees provided for not using all of their time off: 52% said they don’t feel compelled to take time off, but 49% said they worry about falling behind at work if they take extra time off.