Title: Telephone Sick Notes Now Allowed in Certain Circumstances in Saxony-Anhalt, Germany
In a welcome turn of events, the Association of Statutory Health Insurance Physicians in Saxony-Anhalt has embraced the idea of issuing sick notes over the phone. Jörg Böhme, the chairperson, expressed his approval, commenting, "This is excellent news for patients and practices alike." With doctors' time becoming increasingly valuable and a doctor shortage plaguing the nation, telephone sick notes are set to benefit both parties. Patients can avoid the sick room's potential infection hotspot, while healthcare staff can better cater to other patients.
Starting immediately, doctors can now issue sick notes by phone under certain stipulations. The rule, introduced by Germany's Joint Federal Committee based in Berlin, applies to patients known to the doctor's practice and not exhibiting severe symptoms. Video consultations are also ruled out as an alternative. Doctors are allowed to issue a maximum of five-day incapacity certificates via phone.
Doctors in Berlin, like Jörg Böhme from Magdeburg, are anticipating an uptick in telephone sick leave requests due to the convenience it offers patients and the reduced risk of infection in their waiting rooms. Amidst the ongoing Coronavirus pandemic, this policy shift is expected to alleviate some pressure on hospitals and clinics by reducing physical patient visits.
It is worth noting that patients with severe symptoms or those requiring video consultations must still attend their doctor's surgery in person. Additionally, sick leave certificates can only last for up to five days when granted through telephone consultations.
This policy move underscores Germany's dedication to fostering a flexible healthcare system, especially during the pandemic. The country's association of statutory health insurance physicians is championing a more adaptive approach to sick leave requests, reflecting the resilience of Germany's healthcare sector.
Enrichment Insights: - Employees must inform their employer about their illness as soon as possible, regardless of the method used. - Medical certificates are required for illnesses lasting beyond three days, with a submission deadline on the fourth day or as per the employment contract/agreement. - Digital transmission of sick notes will become mandatory from 2023, with employees still obliged to inform their employer of their illness. - The policy does not explicitly permit sole phone use for issuing sick notes but does allow for remote consultations, including telephone and video calls, as preventive measures against infection.
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