Story perspectives
Germany's Sick Leave Proposal Faces Strong Opposition
1/21/2026
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Story summary
- A German proposal to end telephone sick leave sparked backlash from labor groups and medical professionals.
- Chancellor Friedrich Merz argues the current system, which allows illness reports without a doctor visit, contributes to excessive sick days.
- Health Minister Nina Warken supports a policy review, citing potential abuse.
- Doctors’ groups say telephone sick notes account for less than 1% of total sick leave.
