Germany will require employees to obtain a doctor's note from the very first day of sick leave under strict new proposals from Chancellor Friedrich Merz, aimed at boosting the economy. The current policy only mandates a medical certificate from the third day of absence.
New Rules Target High Sick Leave Rates
Chancellor Merz announced the tough measures, stating: 'The number of sick days is too high. We are creating a set of tools that will enable those involved, both employees and companies, to correct this. We know this is a tough decision. But we can no longer afford the competitive disadvantage caused by prolonged absences from work.'
On average, German workers take about three weeks, or 15 working days, of sick leave per year, according to official data. The proposal seeks to reduce this figure to improve productivity and economic competitiveness.
Union and Doctor Reactions
Frank Werneke, head of the services sector union Verdi, criticized the proposal, accusing Merz of creating 'a culture of distrust of employees.' The German Association of Family Physicians also warned that the change would overwhelm general practitioners with unnecessary appointments. 'Our practices would be flooded with patients who don't need in-person care and would be better off in bed,' the association said.
Impact on Economy and Healthcare
The government argues that reducing sick leave is essential for economic growth, as prolonged absences cost businesses billions annually. However, healthcare experts caution that the new rule could strain an already burdened primary care system, leading to longer wait times for genuinely ill patients. The proposal is part of a broader set of economic reforms by Merz's administration.
