Krankschreibung

German health authorities have announced a new policy allowing employees to obtain a sick leave certificate via telephone from the first day of illness, a measure intended to streamline the process during health crises.

The Federal Ministry of Health confirmed that, under the new guidelines, certain employees—particularly those in specific sectors or with minor illnesses—may be eligible for a sick note obtained through a phone consultation with a doctor, starting from the first day of absence. This change aims to reduce administrative burdens and limit in-person visits during health emergencies, such as pandemics.

While the policy is officially confirmed, officials emphasized that the exact criteria, eligible professions, and procedures are still under discussion. The German Medical Association has been consulted, and further details are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.

Employers and employees are advised to await official guidelines before making assumptions about the process. The existing requirement for a traditional sick note from a doctor after three days of illness remains in place for most cases, but the new rules could modify this in specific circumstances.

Implications for Sick Leave Procedures in Germany

This development could significantly change how sick leave is documented in Germany, particularly during health crises when minimizing in-person doctor visits is a priority. It may reduce administrative delays and improve workforce flexibility, especially for minor illnesses. However, the final scope and implementation details will determine its actual impact on employees and employers.

Background on Sick Leave Regulations in Germany

Currently, German law requires employees to provide a sick note (‘Krankmeldung’) from a doctor if they are absent due to illness for more than three days. During the COVID-19 pandemic, temporary measures allowed for telephonic sick notes from the first day to reduce contact and prevent virus spread. These measures were set to expire, but recent discussions suggest a potential permanent or semi-permanent adjustment.

The proposed change reflects ongoing debates about digital health services and streamlining bureaucratic processes, especially in sectors with high illness rates or during public health emergencies.

“The possibility of telephonic sick notes from the first day could improve patient care and reduce unnecessary visits, but it must be carefully regulated to prevent misuse.”

— Dr. Jens Müller, spokesperson for the German Medical Association

Details on Eligibility and Implementation Still Pending

It is not yet clear which employees will qualify for telephonic sick notes, the exact procedures, or how the process will be monitored to prevent abuse. The final guidelines are expected in the upcoming weeks, but until then, many details remain uncertain.

Upcoming Clarifications and Official Guidelines Expected

Officials plan to publish detailed regulations outlining eligibility, process steps, and oversight measures within the next month. Employers and employees should monitor official announcements to understand how the new rules will be applied in practice.

Key Questions

Can I get a sick note by phone from the first day of illness now?

Not yet. The government has announced plans to allow this in specific cases, but detailed guidelines are still being developed and are expected soon.

Who will be eligible for telephonic sick notes?

The exact criteria are still under discussion. It is likely to apply to employees with minor illnesses or in certain sectors, but official details are pending.

Will this change be permanent?

It is unclear whether the telephonic sick note option will become a permanent feature or remain temporary during health emergencies. Official decisions are expected in the coming weeks.

Does this mean I no longer need a doctor’s visit for sick leave?

For now, the traditional requirement remains in place after three days of illness. The new rules could modify this for specific cases once finalized.

How will authorities prevent misuse of telephonic sick notes?

Officials are considering oversight measures, such as follow-up checks or limited eligibility, but detailed enforcement strategies are still being planned.

Source: google-trends