Online Sick Notes: Your Guide to Seeing a Doctor from Home
Healthcare is going digital, and that includes how you get a sick note. With an online sick note, you can often skip the trip to the doctor’s office for common illnesses. This guide explains how the process works, what the benefits are, and when an online consultation is the right choice for you.
Are you an expat living, working or studying in Germany? The German health care system can be challenging – even if you speak German. But we’re here to help: TeleClinic offers English medical advice and sick notes for Germany.
Let’s face it: going to the doctor’s office when you’re already feeling unwell can be a hassle. Crowded waiting rooms, long waits, and the risk of catching something else are just a few reasons why online sick notes are becoming increasingly popular. Thanks to a 2023 legislative change, issuing a certificate of incapacity for work (AU) via video or even a phone consultation is now possible under certain conditions. This has made accessing medical care much simpler and more modern.
How to Get a Sick Note Online
Getting an online sick note with TeleClinic is a simple and secure process. All you need is a smartphone, tablet, or computer with a camera and microphone. The process can be broken down into a few easy steps:
- Start Your Request: Describe your symptoms by filling out a brief medical questionnaire.
- See a Doctor: You’ll have a video consultation with a licensed German doctor, often within minutes.
- Get a Diagnosis & Advice: The doctor will provide a diagnosis and discuss your treatment options.
- Request Your Sick Note*: If medically necessary, you can request an electronic certificate of incapacity for work (eAU).
*Please note: A sick note is not guaranteed. The doctor will assess your symptoms and medical condition to determine if one is necessary.
- Simple and Convenient: Save yourself the trip to the clinic and the time spent in the waiting room.
- Flexible: Appointments are often available in the evenings and on weekends.
- Secure: Your video consultation takes place in a protected, data-secure environment that complies with privacy regulations.
- Expert Care: You will be treated by experienced doctors who are fully licensed to practice in Germany.
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Doctor Visits and Sick Notes
Many people have questions about the legitimacy and cost of online medical services. Here are the answers to the most common concerns.
Is TeleClinic a legitimate service?
Absolutely. TeleClinic is a recognized platform for online medical consultations and works exclusively with doctors licensed to practice in Germany. All medical advice and treatment adhere to strict German medical guidelines. The platform is TÜV-certified and meets the highest security standards for handling patient data, ensuring you receive professional and trustworthy care.
Is TeleClinic covered by my health insurance?
Yes, the costs for an online consultation are covered by all German health insurance providers, both public and private. Many insurance companies have established partnerships with TeleClinic to offer their members additional free benefits and services. The cost of issuing a sick note* is included in the consultation.
How does my employer get the electronic sick note?
Since 2023, the process is fully digital. The electronic sick note (eAU) is sent directly from the doctor to your health insurance provider. Your employer is then required to retrieve the eAU electronically from your insurer. All you have to do is inform your employer that you are on sick leave and for how long. Please follow any specific instructions you receive after the sick note is issued.
How do I send the sick note to my health insurance provider?
As a patient, you no longer need to worry about this. The doctor who treats you handles the digital submission of the eAU to your health insurance provider automatically.
- Can I end my sick leave early? Yes, you can return to work sooner than your sick note states. You don’t need to formally report this to your employer or health insurer; simply let your employer know you are feeling better and ready to work.
- Can I consult an online doctor for free? A medical consultation is a professional service that must be billed. However, this cost is typically covered in full by your German health insurance.
What conditions can be treated online?
Many acute, non-life-threatening conditions can be diagnosed and treated through an online consultation. This includes common infectious diseases like tonsillitis, flu-like infections such as the common cold, or conjunctivitis (pink eye). Conditions like back pain, urinary tract infections, and gastrointestinal issues can also often be handled remotely. Based on your symptoms, the doctor can determine if a video consultation is appropriate. You can even discuss lab results, such as elevated leukocyte (white blood cell) counts that may indicate an infection.
However, for serious or chronic conditions that require a physical examination or specialized lab tests, an in-person visit to a doctor’s office or clinic is essential.
Prescriptions and Medication
If necessary, the doctor can issue an e-prescription* after your online consultation. This is sent to you digitally and can be filled at any pharmacy in Germany, allowing you to pick up your medication from a local pharmacy quickly. The doctor will provide you with all the necessary information during your visit.
Conclusion: When Does an Online Medical Consultation Make Sense?
An online sick note is a modern and practical solution for anyone seeking fast and straightforward medical advice for common ailments. It saves time, reduces stress, and minimizes the risk of infection. For acute symptoms like those from tonsillitis or conjunctivitis, it’s an excellent alternative to a traditional doctor’s visit. It can also be helpful for discussing lab results, such as concerning leukocyte levels.
If you are ever unsure whether your symptoms are suitable for online treatment, don’t hesitate to consult a doctor. With TeleClinic, you are in safe and professional hands.
