dpa | In the debate about sickness-related absences at work, the government commission for savings in health care recommends the introduction of a “stepwise incapacity to work.” Doctors should, in close coordination with those affected, determine the degree of work ability – 100, 75, 50 or 25 percent – the expert panel recommends.
Thus, a partial remaining in the work process as well as a gradual return to the workplace would be facilitated — provided the position is suitable, the commission established by the Ministry of Health writes in its detailed report. When health status changes, the classifications would need to be regularly adjusted. “At the same time, an earlier and more stable return to work can, in the long term, also contribute to stabilizing the solidarity-financed sickness benefit expenditures.”
German social law recognizes only full working capacity or full incapacity to work, the report states. In other countries, for example in Scandinavia, there is the possibility of partial incapacity with positive effects for the insured individuals and the economy. “Especially with chronic illnesses or longer recovery processes there is often partial, but not full, working capacity, so that insured persons can continue to work with a reduced share of their job.”
The experts also point to concerns that employers could pressure workers to work partially despite illness. This could lead to the delaying of illnesses and chronification. “Staying within one’s own limits can be difficult for employees.” Therefore it is crucial that the assessment of work capacity be primarily medically based and require the consent of those affected.
DGB und Sozialverband warnen vor Risiken
A partial incapacity to work can, however, also offer benefits: employees remain embedded in social structures and a daily routine, which is stabilizing, especially for mental illnesses. A slower re-entry into the profession is thus more flexible and possible earlier. In addition, long absences could prevent dequalification.
The DGB rejects partial sick notes. “When you are sick, you must be able to recover in peace,” said DGB board member Anja Piel. “The pressure on employees to work despite illness burdens staff further and endangers everyone’s health.” It raises the question of how freely someone could decide on a partial sick leave if economic pressures or hierarchical structures create pressure.
The German Social Association also rejects partial sick leave and warns of the danger of work pressure despite illness. “Those who return too early increase the risk of longer or more serious illnesses,” said chairwoman Michaela Engelmeier. “That cannot be in the employers’ interests, because in the end the absence rates simply accumulate even more.”
