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Emergency

Sick note by telemedicine and video consultation

Under certain conditions, a sick note is also possible without a personal visit to the practice, by video consultation or by phone. That is convenient but tied to conditions. What matters is that the certificate is issued properly.

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Under certain conditions, an inability to work may be established by video consultation or, to a limited extent for known patients and milder illnesses, by phone. The rules of the Federal Joint Committee are decisive.
A properly issued certificate of inability to work has the same evidentiary value, regardless of whether it was created in the practice or by telemedicine. The employer must generally recognize it.

What you should do now

  1. 1

    1. Check the provider

    Use reputable, medically run telemedicine services.

  2. 2

    2. Clarify the conditions

    Clarify whether your case is suitable for a telemedicine sick note.

  3. 3

    3. Secure the certificate

    Make sure you get a proper certificate of inability to work with diagnosis and duration.

  4. 4

    4. Report to the employer

    Report the inability to work without delay and submit the certificate.

How to spot the scam

  • The sick note comes from a dubious provider without a real medical review.
  • The certificate does not show the diagnosis or duration.
  • The sick note to the employer is filed late.

Frequently asked questions

Is a sick note by video possible?

Yes, under certain conditions. An inability to work can be established by video consultation if the illness is suitable for it. By phone it is possible to a limited extent for known patients and milder illnesses. The requirements of the Federal Joint Committee apply.

Must the employer recognize an online sick note?

A properly issued certificate of inability to work has the same evidentiary value as one issued in the practice. The employer must generally recognize it. Doubts can only arise if the certificate was not formally issued correctly.

Are pure 'click' sick notes permitted?

Pure form-based offerings without a real medical assessment are questionable and can be challenged. What matters is that a doctor actually assesses the individual case. Use reputable, medically run services so the certificate holds up.

Take action now

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General information for self-help, not legal advice (RDG). In case of a high loss or uncertainty: contact a consumer advice center or a lawyer.