Germany debates new rule requiring sick note on first day of illness

A coalition of physicians representing the State Medical Society has condemned a new health‑department directive that requires patients to obtain a physician’s certification note in person, calling the mandate “borders on madness.” The rule, which takes effect next month, applies to individuals seeking documentation for a range of exemptions, including vaccine waivers and controlled‑substance prescriptions, and obliges them to schedule an in‑person appointment rather than allowing telehealth or electronic verification.

The doctors’ group argues that the requirement places an unnecessary burden on patients, especially those in rural areas or with mobility constraints, and could delay access to essential care. Critics of the policy note that many medical notes can be safely issued after a virtual consultation, a practice that has expanded since the pandemic. State health officials maintain the in‑person stipulation is intended to curb fraud and ensure thorough clinical assessment, but have not indicated any plans to revise the rule in response to the medical community’s objections.