German Family Doctors Warn Against Repealing Phone Sick Notes, Argue No Abuse and Patient Safety Benefits

Beier sees no problems with shorter sick notes, such as those for respiratory diseases, but with longer absences. “This pseudo‑debate distracts from the real problems” he warned. Long‑term sick leave of more than six weeks accounted for only 3.5 percent of all incapacity cases, but caused over 40 percent of absences. “Those who really want to reduce absences in Germany must start with an efficient and therapeutically meaningful reintegration” he warned. For that, the so‑called Hamburg model for a gradual return to work must be urgently reformed and be binding for all employers in Germany, the association head demanded.