Being ill is unpleasant, but it is even more difficult if you have to start working again while you are not completely fit. Reintegration can be complicated, because there are many rules and agreements that you have to deal with. What can be expected of you, what should your employer do, and what if you cannot agree? In this blog we explain it and give useful tips.
What is reintegration?
Reintegration means that you return to work after a period of illness. This can be in your own position, but sometimes that is not possible. Then they look for other work within your company. If that is not possible either, you can look for work with your employer at another company. This is called the second track.
What are your rights and obligations?
You as an employee:
- Collaborate: It is important that you cooperate in your recovery. You should also actively try to return to work.
- To clarify: You don't have to tell your employer exactly what you have, but you can indicate what you can do.
- Follow the action plan: Together with your employer you make a plan for your reintegration. You must stick to this plan.
Your employer:
- Provide for reintegration: The employer is expected to do a lot to help you get back to work. This can be done by adjusting tasks or offering other work.
- Payment of wages: During illness your employer pays at least 70% of your salary. This may be different if stated in the collective labor agreement.
- Reporting: If you have been ill for two years, your employer must make a reintegration report. The UWV uses this report to assess whether you have done enough. This takes a maximum of 104 weeks (unless a wage sanction is imposed on the employer) and the first 52 weeks of the waiting period the employer must pay at least the statutory minimum wage
What does the company doctor do?
The company doctor plays an important role in reintegration. This person looks at what you can still do and what your limitations are. This advice helps you and your employer to make good agreements. The company doctor is independent and works in the interest of your health.
Do you disagree with the company doctor? Then request a second opinion. You are entitled to a second opinion from another company doctor.
Want to know more about the role of the company doctor? Look at UWV.nl.
What if you get stuck?
Sometimes problems arise during reintegration. For example, if you and your employer disagree about what is suitable work. In such a case, you can expert opinion apply to the UWV.
What is an expert judgment?
An expert opinion is an advice from the UWV about reintegration. They look at who is right in the conflict. The opinion is not mandatory, but is often used as a basis in a lawsuit or conflict.
Request an expert opinion via the UWV website.
Common problems and solutions
- You refuse suitable work
- Problem: Your employer offers you work that the company doctor believes you can do, but you do not find it suitable.
- Solution: Ask the company doctor for an explanation. If you have any doubts, you can request an expert opinion.
- Your employer is not helping enough
- Problem: Your employer is not doing enough to help you.
- Solution: Talk to your employer about this. If this does not help, ask for advice from De Unie or the UWV.
- The company doctor does not understand you
- Problem: You feel misunderstood.
- Solution: Request a second opinion from another company doctor.
- The plan is unrealistic
- Problem: The reintegration plan does not match your capabilities.
- Solution: Discuss this again with your employer and, if necessary, ask for an expert opinion.
Practical tips
- Stay in touch: Talk regularly with your employer and the company doctor.
- Note down appointments: Write down what is discussed and share it with each other. This helps to prevent misunderstandings.
- Ask for help: Do you feel like you're on your own? Get help from De Unie or a legal advisor.
What can De Unie do for you?
At De Unie we are ready to help you with all your questions about reintegration. Need legal advice? – we are here for you. Contact our Service Center today via sc@unie.nl or call us on 0345 851 963 on weekdays between 8:30 and 17:00. Become a member and be stronger in your work!
More information?
We have all the information about disability and illness collected for you.
