What are Germany's rules on sick leave from work – and how will they change?

Under Germany's electronic sick note system (eAU), employers usually receive this information directly from health insurers. READ ALSO: Your views - you can't be fired for taking too many sick days in GermanyAdvertisementWhat's the reaction? Various studies have shown that sick notes issued over the phone are not responsible for high sickness absence rates. Until draft legislation is published, many of the practical details – including how the new rules would operate alongside Germany's electronic sick note system – remain vague. Some reports suggest video consultations would remain available under existing rules, even though telephone sick notes are due to be abolished.