Discussion on sick notes: Doctors criticize planned new regulation
The new German federal government is planning an important change to sick leave for employees. In the future, the so-called "sick note by phone" is to be abolished. Instead, employees will be required to present a medical certificate at the practice starting from the very first day of illness.
These plans are meeting with clear criticism from many medical associations. The physicians describe the initiative as "symbolic politics." They argue that such a regulation would place an unnecessary burden on medical practices. Especially during cold and flu season, waiting rooms could become overcrowded with patients suffering from minor infections, which would complicate daily operations.
Proponents of the new regulation, on the other hand, emphasize that a personal examination by a doctor is necessary to correctly determine incapacity for work. They hope that the stricter requirement will lead to a reduction in absenteeism in German companies and greater reliability regarding short-term sick leave.
The debate highlights the conflict between bureaucratic requirements and the practical relief of the healthcare system. While policymakers are opting for stricter controls, experts warn of a high bureaucratic burden for both doctors and patients. It remains to be seen what the final implementation of the regulation will look like and whether there will be exceptions for certain medical conditions.