Background
Despite the similarities between Germany and Austria in regards to the rate, cost, and distribution of sick leave depending on the group of diseases, there are also a number of differences. In particular this includes the strategies for reintegrating individuals suffering from long-term sickness, which is particularly important due to various legal conditions. Since 2004 in Germany, it has been a legal requirement for employers to obtain occupational integration management, which is an organizational process that is based on Volume IX of the Code of Social Law (Sozialgesetzbuch IX). The use of occupational integration management is voluntary for employees. In Austria, since 2011, individual support by the use of a case management program has been in the foreground. This is established by the Law for Work and Health (Arbeit-und-Gesundheit-Gesetz) and is on a voluntary basis for organizations.
Objective
This essay explores the different statutory bases as well as the professional practice of occupational reintegration of individuals suffering from long-term sickness in Germany and Austria.
Conclusion
Both countries already possess various successful activities and developments regarding the reintegration of individuals suffering from long-term sickness. However, there are still many open questions. There is, above all, not a single solution for reintegrating individuals suffering from long-term sickness. It is important that each individual case of reintegration is treated distinctively according to its characteristics. In this context, individuals who suffer from long-term sickness due to mental illness pose a major challenge.