The black-red coalition plans to abolish phone sick notes, raising concerns about increased patient visits to doctors.

The black-red coalition is set to eliminate the option of obtaining sick notes via phone without a doctor’s visit. A mandatory presentation of a sick leave certificate on the first day of illness will be introduced, which could burden medical practices.

Andreas Storm, CEO of DAK-Gesundheit, cautioned that this change could lead to more doctor visits and increased pressure on healthcare workers. Vice Chancellor Lars Klingbeil defended the measures as a coalition compromise, emphasizing the need for practical solutions. Protests have erupted against the plans, with concerns that more sick individuals will crowd already overwhelmed clinics.