Germany sparks fierce debate with plan for doctor's note on first day of illness

Germany is facing a heated debate over proposed changes to sick leave regulations, which would require employees to present a doctor's certificate on the very first day of illness. This move by the ruling coalition aims to curb what Chancellor Friedrich Merz describes as an "excessively high" rate of sick leave, which he believes is hindering the country's competitiveness.

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The number of sick days in Germany is simply too high.

Under current rules, a doctor's note is typically only required after three days of absence, though employers can request one earlier. The proposed legislation, agreed upon by Chancellor Merz's CDU party and the Social Democrats (SPD), seeks to revert to pre-pandemic norms. Merz stated, "We can no longer afford the competitive handicap that arises from prolonged absences from the workplace."

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This is a difficult decision.

However, the proposal has met with fierce opposition from medical professionals. The National Association of Statutory Health Insurance Physicians (KBV) called the plan "almost bordering on madness," arguing it would force thousands of people with mild illnesses to visit clinics, potentially spreading infections. "A person who is coughing or has an intestinal infection should be in bed, not in a crowded doctor's office," the KBV stated.

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We can no longer afford the competitive handicap that arises from prolonged absences from the workplace.

The Association of Family Doctors echoed these concerns, warning that waiting rooms could become overwhelmed with patients suffering from minor contagious diseases that would normally warrant only a day or two of rest at home. While SPD leader Lars Klingbeil and Labor Minister Bärbel Bas have indicated a willingness to seek "feasible solutions" and further review the measure, CDU parliamentary group leader Jens Spahn defended the proposal, citing Germany's high sick leave rates compared to other EU nations.

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It is almost on the verge of madness to force thousands of people to come to doctor's offices just to get an administrative certificate.