(1) beginning on the first day of disability; and

(2) continuing until the earlier of:

(i) the day that the employee is able to return to work, as certified by a physician; or

(ii) 6 months from the day of disability.

(b) After an employee returns to work, work-related accident leave may be granted for continuing treatment as certified by a physician selected by the appointing authority up to 6 months from the day of the original disability.

(c) Work-related accident leave may be granted for up to an additional 6 months if:

(1) the employee is certified by a physician selected or accepted by the appointing authority; and

(2) no decision has been reached by the Workers’ Compensation Commission on the employee’s claim.