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Summary
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case and in that way could help the SSIA to single out where their
efforts were most needed in order to help people return to work.
As a general rule, simplified medical certificates should be issued
for people who are not expected to be on sick leave for more than
60 days.
In April 2016, the SSIA decided to stop the implementation of
simplified medical certificates in sickness cases due to an internal
report. The internal report showed that the simplified medical
certificates were also being used in situations where they were not
intended, meaning that sickness cases often exceeded the 60-day
limit.
Objectives
The purpose of this study is to describe and understand the process
that led to the withdrawal of the implementation of simplified
medical certificates. It is also to analyse how it could have been
handled differently and what lessons can be drawn from the
experience.
Methods
The study uses various methods. Interviews were conducted with
people at different levels within the SSIA, as well as document
studies and statistical analysis.
Findings
The ISF found that simplified medical certificates were issued in
situations where regular medical certificates were required. The
interviews conducted also provided information that the
administrative officers handling the sick leave cases were under the
impression from management that simplified medical certificates
should not be questioned. Furthermore, the follow-up system in place
was insufficient and could not therefore signal whether or not the
system of simplified medical certificates was working as intended.
This could in turn result in the SSIA making incorrect decisions on
sick leave.