Germany's policy allowing sick notes via phone, introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic, is under scrutiny.

The policy, made permanent in December 2023, permits patients known to their doctors to receive sick notes without visiting the practice, provided they have no severe symptoms.

The German General Practitioners' Association defends this measure, citing its success in reducing bureaucracy and maintaining patient care amid rising infections.

However, employers argue it contributes to high absenteeism and call for its repeal.

Finance Minister Christian Lindner supports a return to in-person consultations, noting a correlation between the policy and increased sick leave.

The debate continues as the government reviews the policy's impact on the economy.