Is it possible to extend sick leave?

Extending sick leave: how it works

Sick leave may be necessary for various reasons in order to support your own health or recovery. However, sometimes the initial period of sick leave is not sufficient and an extension is required. Here you can find out how you can extend a sick note, what legal framework conditions need to be observed and what options there are for extending it without having to see a doctor again.

Abstract

• Sick leave can be extended if recovery takes longer than expected.
• The extension must be documented correctly and in good time.
• A new visit to the doctor is necessary in most cases.

When is an extension of sick leave necessary?

An extension of the sick leave is necessary if the original duration of the sick leave is not sufficient for a full recovery. Common reasons for an extension are

• Protracted infections or colds
• Chronic diseases
• Recovery times after operations
• Mental stress or burnout
• Complications during the healing process

In these cases, it is important that you act early and apply for an extension of your sick leave in order to remain legally protected and ensure continued payment of wages.

How do I extend a sick leave?

To extend a sick note, you should make an appointment with your doctor in good time before your existing sick note expires. The doctor will reassess your health situation and decide whether an extension is necessary. It is important that the extension is fully documented in order to avoid problems with your employer or health insurance company.

Is an extension possible without a visit to the doctor?

In some cases, it is possible to extend a sick note without seeing a doctor in person. Many doctors’ surgeries now offer telemedicine consultations where you can speak to a doctor via video or telephone call. The doctor can then issue an extension to your sick note based on your description and any medical documents you may have. However, it is important that you clarify this at an early stage and meet the necessary technical requirements.

What legal framework conditions need to be observed?

The legal framework for the extension of sick leave is regulated in the Continued Remuneration Act (EFZG). According to Section 5 (1) EFZG, the employer must be informed immediately of the inability to work and its expected duration. If you extend your sick leave, it is important that this is done seamlessly so as not to jeopardize your entitlement to continued pay and sick pay. You should also ensure that the extension is made in good time before the existing sick leave expires in order to avoid legal problems.

How do I inform my employer?

If you need an extension to your sick leave, you should inform your employer as early as possible. It is best to let them know as soon as you know that your recovery will take longer than originally planned. A phone call or e-mail may be sufficient to inform your employer. Submit the extended sick note as soon as you receive it from the doctor. This will ensure that your employer is informed of your inability to work in good time and that there are no misunderstandings or legal problems.

What options does TeleClinic offer?

TeleClinic offers a flexible and convenient way to obtain medical advice and sick notes online. You can use the TeleClinic platform to speak to a doctor quickly and easily and obtain an initial certificate for a sick note if required. This is particularly helpful if you cannot make it to a local doctor in time or if you are unable to leave the house due to symptoms of illness. Please note: It is currently not possible to extend an existing sick note at TeleClinic.

However, if you continue to suffer from mild symptoms after a sick note or feel unsure, you can seek medical advice at any time. In a personal consultation, a doctor will clarify with you whether further treatment is necessary – and whether, for example, a prescription or a recommendation to alleviate your symptoms makes sense.

What are the challenges of extending a sick leave?

One of the biggest challenges when extending a sick note is timely and complete documentation. It is important that the extension follows on seamlessly from the existing sick note so as not to jeopardize the entitlement to continued payment of wages and sick pay. It can also be difficult to get a doctor’s appointment at short notice, especially at peak times or when doctors’ surgeries are very busy. This is where telemedicine solutions offer a valuable alternative for quickly and easily obtaining an extension of sick leave.

In many cases, it is necessary to extend a sick note in order to ensure a full recovery and to be legally protected. It is important that the extension is documented correctly and in good time in order to avoid problems with the employer or health insurance company.