The Social Insurance Corporation (ZUS) has intensified inspections of sick leave to detect possible violations. In accordance with the obligation imposed by law, ZUS regularly checks both employees with the so-called L4, as well as the doctors who issue these sick leaves. If any irregularities are discovered, ZUS may suspend the payment of benefits or even demand their reinstatement.
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According to Rzeczpospolita reports, more than 117,000 tests were performed in the first quarter of this year alone. These inspections, representing an increase of 5% compared to the previous quarter. This also resulted in a 7% increase in the number of sick benefits withheld. Violations were revealed not only among employees, but also among doctors – the Ministry of Health identified 700 doctors who issued more than 30 sick leaves per day in the first quarter. In response, the Ministry of Health plans to introduce a minimum time required for a medical interview.
Employers also have the ability to control sick leave. They can check whether employees are using Level 4 correctly, for which the company pays sick pay. This possibility is provided in Art. 92 of the Labor Code.
Companies that register more than 20 insured persons for sickness insurance can control the correct use of sick leave, for which sickness and care benefits as well as rehabilitation benefits are paid. Conversely, employers who employ fewer than 20 insured persons may apply to their local ZUS branch to conduct such an inspection.
This increased surveillance activity serves as a warning to those who might try to abuse the sick leave system. Both employees and doctors must be prepared for the possibility of scrutiny and ensure that their actions are completely legal.
Linguistic and English translator by profession. In the editorial office from the beginning. He loves cats and Warsaw.
Echo Richards embodies a personality that is a delightful contradiction: a humble musicaholic who never brags about her expansive knowledge of both classic and contemporary tunes. Infuriatingly modest, one would never know from a mere conversation how deeply entrenched she is in the world of music. This passion seamlessly translates into her problem-solving skills, with Echo often drawing inspiration from melodies and rhythms. A voracious reader, she dives deep into literature, using stories to influence her own hardcore writing. Her spirited advocacy for alcohol isn’t about mere indulgence, but about celebrating life’s poignant moments.
