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Planned Changes to Sick Pay and Medical Certificates
The German government is proposing significant reforms to sick pay (Krankengeld) and medical certificate regulations aimed at controlling rising healthcare costs. According to the draft by the Federal Ministry of Health, employees who expect to be ill for more than four weeks could have the option to partially return to work during their illness, which is being called “partial work resumption.” This new status would allow them to work reduced hours depending on their condition, rather than being fully off work.
Additionally, the current sick pay, which is 70 percent of an employee’s gross salary, would be reduced to 65 percent for those with long-term illnesses. These measures are part of broader cost containment efforts as expenditures for sick pay have risen disproportionately over the past decade, according to the GKV Financial Commission report. The reform aims to reduce financial burdens on the health insurance system caused by an increasing number of beneficiaries taking sick leave for more prolonged periods [Source 1][Source 2][Source 6].
Implications of the Partial Work Resumption Model
The partial work resumption model introduces a tiered framework where workers can work at 100 percent, 50 percent, 25 percent, or potentially other reduced levels. This represents a departure from the current all-or-nothing approach, where individuals are either fully certified as sick or fully working. The intention is to encourage a more flexible and gradual reintegration into the workforce, believed to help reduce the duration and frequency of complete work absences.
While the reform could ease the burden on employers by lowering the extent of required sick pay compensation during partial work phases, it raises questions about implementation specifics and employee rights. Critics have expressed concerns that these changes may increase pressure on employees to return to work prematurely and place additional stress on the insured, particularly those seriously ill [Source 1][Source 3][Source 7].
What Expats and International Workers Should Know
These reforms affect all employees in Germany, including expats, international students, and foreign workers who rely on statutory health insurance and sick pay benefits. The proposed reduction in sick pay from 70 to 65 percent for long-term sick leave will impact the net income of affected individuals, potentially decreasing financial support during illness.
Expats working in Germany should be aware of the new possibility of partial work resumption if they face extended illness periods, which could influence how they coordinate with their employers and healthcare providers regarding sick leave. They may need to accommodate flexible work arrangements if the reform passes. Additionally, the reforms intend to reduce employer obligations for continued payment during sickness, which could indirectly impact employment negotiations and protections for foreign employees.
People affected should monitor the legislative process closely to understand the precise rules and deadlines when the reforms are implemented. Consulting with human resources or health insurance providers is advisable to clarify individual rights and financial implications in light of the new regulations [Source 1][Source 7].
For further details, see the original report at tagesschau.de [Source 1].
