Reintegration of the long-term sick

The federal coalition agreement provides for a number of measures to prevent and reintegrate the long-term sick, affecting employers, employees, doctors and health insurance funds.

For employers:

– A contribution of 30% of the National Institute for Sickness and Disability Insurance allowance during the first two months of incapacity, except for SMEs.

– Penalty if the reinstatement process is initiated after six months (for companies with more than 20 employees).

– Possibility of initiating formal or informal reinstatement with the employee’s agreement.

– Reduction from nine to six months of the period before termination on grounds of medical force majeure.

For employees:

– Reduction of uncertified sick days from three to two per year.

– Obligation to register with the regional employment service or to follow a reintegration program.

– Financial penalties for non-cooperation (10% reduction or suspension of compensation).

– The 30 days of guaranteed pay will only be granted after eight weeks of recovery.

– Cancellation of guaranteed pay in the event of a relapse during a partial return to work.

Concerning doctors:

– Introduction of a ‘fit note’ specifying the worker’s capabilities.

– Increased monitoring and financial penalties for doctors who prescribe too much time off work or for too long.

– Electronic reporting of suspicious certificates via the Social Intelligence and Investigation Service, with increased penalties.

For health insurance funds:

– A change in funding, with a share conditional on reintegration results.

The aim of this reform is to make everyone involved more accountable and to encourage workers to return to work quickly and sustainably.