CDU calls for end to telephone sick notes - CDU votes to end phone-based sick notes amid rising absences

The CDU has pushed for stricter rules on sick leave certificates. At its party conference in Stuttgart, delegates voted to scrap phone-based sick notes. The move comes after criticism of rising absence rates and concerns over the system's reliability.

The proposal originated from the Mittelstands- und Wirtschaftsunion, a group representing small and medium-sized businesses. They argued that phone sick notes make it too easy for employees to take time off without proper medical checks.

Chancellor and CDU leader Friedrich Merz backed the motion, questioning whether phone consultations provide accurate assessments. He highlighted high sickness absence rates as a growing problem for employers.

Health Minister Nina Warken has now agreed to review the current regulations. The CDU claims that removing phone sick notes will reduce unnecessary absences and ensure fairer workplace practices.

The debate follows recent legislative changes, including the BEEP law passed in December 2025. However, no specific data exists on how often phone sick notes have been used in recent years or which sectors are most affected.

The CDU's decision sets the stage for potential reforms in how sick leave is certified. If implemented, the changes would require all employees to visit a doctor in person. The government will now examine the impact of phone sick notes before making further decisions.