If doctor is out for extended time, can we lay off his staff?

Q: "Our head physician is having a surgical procedure and should only be out for two weeks. If, for some reason, he is unable to return to work for a month or two, are there any guidelines as to how to handle his employee situation? Can we lay them off temporarily and can they draw unemployment during that time? Or do most disability policies cover employees and expenses during the time a doctor is out on medical leave?" --  J.M, North Carolina