Mittwoch Donnerstag Freitag Krank Montag Gesund Attest

Navigating the German healthcare system and workplace culture can be challenging, especially when dealing with illness and absence from work. Understanding common terms related to sickness, workdays, and medical certificates is crucial for a smooth experience. This article clarifies the meaning and practical application of terms like Mittwoch, Donnerstag, Freitag, Krank, Montag, Gesund, and Attest.

Understanding the Days of the Week: Mittwoch, Donnerstag, Freitag, Montag

First, let's clarify the days of the week, as they are fundamental to understanding work schedules and sick leave policies in Germany.

Montag: This translates to Monday, the first day of the work week for most people.
Dienstag: Tuesday.
Mittwoch: Wednesday, the middle of the work week.
Donnerstag: Thursday.
Freitag: Friday, the last working day for many.
Samstag: Saturday.
Sonntag: Sunday.

Knowing these terms helps you understand your work schedule and discuss sick leave, doctor's appointments, and other related matters.

Krank: Being Sick

The word Krank simply means "sick" or "ill." If you are krank, you are not feeling well and potentially unable to work.

In Germany, you have the right to take sick leave if you are too krank to work. However, there are specific rules and procedures you must follow to ensure you receive continued payment of your salary while you are sick. These regulations are primarily governed by the Entgeltfortzahlungsgesetz (Continued Payment of Salary Act).

Reporting Sick Leave to Your Employer

It is essential to inform your employer as soon as possible when you are krank. This notification should ideally be done by phone or email before the start of your work day. The law generally requires you to inform your employer unverzüglich – without undue delay.

Your employer may have specific procedures for reporting sick leave, so it's important to familiarize yourself with your company's policies. Some companies have online portals or specific contact persons for reporting illness. Check your employment contract or ask your HR department for clarification.

The Importance of the Attest (Ärztliche Bescheinigung)

An Attest, also called ärztliche Bescheinigung or Krankmeldung, is a medical certificate from a doctor confirming that you are sick and unable to work. This document is crucial for justifying your absence from work and receiving continued salary payment.

When do you need an Attest? The law states that you may be required to submit an Attest from the first day of your illness. However, many companies allow employees to self-certify their illness (Selbstauskunft) for a limited period, typically one to three days. After this period, an Attest is almost always required.

Again, check your company's policy regarding Selbstauskunft. If you are unsure, it is always safer to obtain an Attest from the first day of your illness.

Where do you get an Attest? You obtain an Attest from a doctor. This can be your family doctor (Hausarzt) or any other doctor who can diagnose your illness. It's important to make an appointment with a doctor as soon as possible after becoming sick, especially if you anticipate needing an Attest.

What information is included in an Attest? An Attest typically includes the following information:

Your name and date of birth
The doctor's name and contact information
The date the Attest was issued
The period during which you are deemed unfit to work (voraussichtliche Dauer der Arbeitsunfähigkeit)
The date of your examination (festgestellt am)
Sometimes, the *diagnosis* is mentioned, but often coded or not included at all, to protect your privacy
The doctor's signature and stamp

What do you do with the Attest? You will typically receive two copies of the Attest. One copy is for your employer, and the other is for your health insurance provider (Krankenkasse). It is crucial to submit these copies promptly. Check with your employer and health insurance provider for their preferred method of submission (e.g., email, mail, or in-person).

What happens if you don't submit an Attest on time?

Failing to submit an Attest on time can have serious consequences. Your employer may be entitled to withhold your salary for the period you were absent without proper documentation. In some cases, repeated failure to provide an Attest could even lead to disciplinary action.

Gesund: Being Healthy

The opposite of krank is gesund, meaning "healthy." When you are gesund and able to work, you are expected to return to your job.

While you don't usually need a specific document to prove that you are gesund, some employers may request a "Gesundschreibung" (a confirmation of fitness to work) from your doctor, especially after a prolonged absence due to illness. This is more common in certain professions or after specific types of illnesses. Always check with your employer about their specific requirements.

Specific Scenarios and Considerations

Illness on a Weekend or Holiday

If you become krank on a weekend (Samstag or Sonntag) or a public holiday (Feiertag), you are still required to inform your employer as soon as possible on the next working day. The rules regarding the Attest still apply, so you should see a doctor on the next available day to obtain one if necessary. If your illness extends beyond the self-certification period allowed by your company, you will need an Attest covering the entire period of absence.

Illness During Vacation

If you become krank during your vacation (Urlaub), these days can be credited back to you as vacation days, provided you obtain an Attest from a doctor. This means that the sick days will not be counted as part of your vacation allowance. However, you must still follow the same reporting procedures as if you were sick during your normal work schedule. Get an Attest, inform your employer immediately, and submit the necessary documentation.

Long-Term Illness

If you are krank for an extended period, you may be eligible for sickness benefits (Krankengeld) from your health insurance provider. This benefit is typically paid after your employer's obligation to pay continued salary has expired (usually after six weeks). The amount of Krankengeld is generally lower than your regular salary. Contact your health insurance provider to understand the specific requirements and application process for Krankengeld.

Returning to Work After Illness (Wiedereingliederung)

After a long period of illness, you may be offered a gradual return to work (Wiedereingliederung) program. This allows you to gradually increase your working hours over time, with the support of your doctor and employer. The goal is to help you reintegrate into the workforce in a safe and sustainable manner. This process requires a specific plan (Stufenweise Wiedereingliederung) developed in consultation with your doctor, employer, and health insurance provider.

Key Takeaways

Here's a summary of the key points to remember:

Inform your employer immediately if you are krank.
Know your company's policy on self-certification (Selbstauskunft).
Obtain an Attest from a doctor if required, and submit it promptly to your employer and health insurance provider.
Understand your rights regarding continued salary payment and sickness benefits (Krankengeld).
If you become krank during vacation, get an Attest to reclaim those vacation days.

By understanding these terms and procedures, you can navigate the German healthcare system and workplace policies related to illness with greater confidence and avoid potential misunderstandings or complications.