At a gathering of the Terrassa Business Confederation, Alberto Núñez Feijóo, the leader of Spain’s People’s Party, entered the heated debate over rising workplace sick leaves. He argued that mutual insurers should be allowed to sign workers back on in certain cases, a move that could reshape how illnesses are managed across the country.
Step 1: Current System
Today, mutual insurers can propose a return to work, but the final decision rests with a public‑system doctor. This applies only to illnesses classified as occupational, meaning they stem directly from the job itself.
Step 2: Feijóo’s Proposal
Feijóo suggested extending that authority to “certain pathologies” beyond occupational diseases, allowing the insurers to issue discharge notices for common health contingencies as well. The proposal would give employers a new avenue to shorten the duration of sick leave.
Step 3: Potential Impact
If adopted, the change could speed up the reintegration of workers, easing pressure on businesses that face mounting costs from prolonged absences. Critics warn it might prioritize economic concerns over medical judgment, while supporters see it as a pragmatic response to the surge in sick‑leave claims.
Where Things Stand
The idea remains a proposal from the opposition party. It will need legislative discussion and agreement from the health ministry before any amendment to the existing framework can be enacted.