German Health Ministry Rejects Part-Time Sick Leave Proposal

The proposed policy aimed to allow partial sick leave for minor illnesses, but faces opposition from the government and unions.

The proposal for part-time sick leave was introduced by Klaus Reinhardt, President of the German Medical Association, to address high absenteeism rates.
Reinhardt suggested that employees with minor illnesses could work from home for a few hours daily to maintain productivity while recovering.
Political support for the idea came from health policy representatives of the FDP and the Greens, who saw potential benefits for workplace flexibility.
Major opposition to the proposal emerged from the AOK health insurance and the German Trade Union Confederation, citing concerns over implementation and worker well-being.
The German Health Ministry officially dismissed the proposal, stating it is not pursuing such a plan at this time.