The Knesset Contemplates Allowing Illness Approval Without a Doctor’s Signature

The regulations regarding the issuance of digital certificates for up to four days of illness by a doctor will be solidified. Additionally, employees will now have the option to present a short illness certificate from the health insurance fund, even if not signed by a doctor, for up to four days, as long as it covers seven consecutive days. This can be done up to four times a year, with a limit of ten days per year.

The Ministry of Labor stated that these changes are in response to a government decision aimed at reducing the burden on the health system. The amendment will introduce a streamlined process for issuing illness certificates that do not require a visit or conversation with a doctor, except for when an illness lasts more than four days.

Despite these progressive changes, employers have expressed concerns about potential abuse of the system. They believe that employees may take advantage of the new regulations to obtain unnecessary sick days. Some proposed implementing a mechanism for reviewing and challenging sickness certificates to prevent fraud.

In an effort to address these concerns, there was a suggestion to require employees requesting short sick leave without a doctor’s signature to sign an affidavit confirming the validity of their request. However, there was disagreement on whether this statement should be signed before the health fund or the employer. The parties involved will continue to discuss and refine the regulations to ensure a balance between supporting workers and preventing abuse of the system.