DGB Bavaria Defends Telephone Sick Notes Amidst CSU Criticism Over Rising Absenteeism

Introduction to the Debate

The German Trade Union Confederation (DGB) Bavaria has publicly defended the continued use of telephone sick notes, a practice that has recently come under fire from the Christian Social Union (CSU). The CSU has voiced concerns that the ease of obtaining sick notes via telephone contributes to a rise in absenteeism across the workforce. This debate highlights differing views on balancing employee health, administrative efficiency, and economic productivity in Germany.

CSU's Stance on Increased Sick Days

Bavarian Minister President Markus Söder (CSU) has been a prominent critic, stating that people in Germany are being 'too often and too quickly sick-listed' ('zu oft und zu schnell krankgeschrieben'). The CSU has called for the abolition of telephone sick notes, linking the practice to the observed increase in sick days and suggesting it negatively impacts the economy. This criticism emerged as official statistics indicated a significant rise in employee absences.

DGB Bavaria's Defense and Expert Views

In response to the CSU's critique, DGB Bavaria has advocated for the retention of telephone sick notes. The practice, which was permanently introduced in Germany on December 7, 2023, for patients with mild illnesses, allows individuals to obtain a sick note for up to five calendar days without a physical doctor's visit. This system requires the patient to be known to the doctor's practice, having visited at least once in the preceding two years.

The DGB's defense aligns with arguments from health experts and organizations like the AOK-Bundesverband. Carola Reimann, CEO of the AOK-Bundesverband, has stated that the 'felt truth' ('gefühlte Wahrheit') linking high sick days directly to telephone sick notes 'cannot be confirmed' ('nicht bestätigen'). Proponents of the telephone sick note system emphasize its benefits:

• Relief for Doctor's Offices: It reduces the burden on medical practices, especially during peak infection seasons.
• Reduced Bureaucracy: Simplifies the process for both patients and healthcare providers.
• Lower Infection Risk: Helps prevent the spread of infectious diseases by keeping mildly ill patients out of waiting rooms.

Furthermore, analyses conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic, when the system was initially piloted, showed no evidence of increased absenteeism directly attributable to telephone sick notes.

Understanding the Rise in Absenteeism

While sick days have indeed risen significantly in Germany, experts suggest that the causes are more complex than simply the availability of telephone sick notes. Data indicates a notable increase in absenteeism, with the average number of sick days per insured person rising from 11.1 days in 2021 to 15.1 days in 2022. In the first nine months of 2024, the average stood at 14.13 days, compared to 11.40 days in 2019.

Key factors identified for this trend include:

• Improved Statistical Recording: The introduction of digital sick notes has led to more accurate and comprehensive data collection.
• Increased Respiratory Illnesses: A higher incidence of colds and other respiratory conditions contributes to short-term absences.
• Rise in Psychological Illnesses: There has been a documented increase in sick days due to mental health issues such as depression and anxiety.

These factors, rather than the method of obtaining a sick note, are seen by many as the primary drivers behind the current high rates of absenteeism.

Conclusion

The debate between DGB Bavaria and the CSU underscores ongoing discussions about healthcare policy and labor practices in Germany. While the CSU points to rising sick days as a reason to reconsider telephone sick notes, DGB Bavaria, supported by expert analysis, maintains that the system offers crucial benefits and is not the root cause of increased absenteeism. The discussion continues as stakeholders seek effective solutions to manage public health and economic challenges.