Saxony-Anhalt stands out with the highest sick leave rate in Germany. In 2022, employees insured by AOK in this region took an average of 28.4 sick days. Respiratory diseases, musculoskeletal disorders, and mental illnesses were the primary culprits. While respiratory issues were most common, they resulted in shorter absences. On the other hand, musculoskeletal and mental health problems led to the longest leaves.
Interestingly, long-term illnesses accounted for a significant portion of the absenteeism. Despite only 3.9% of sick leaves extending beyond six weeks, they represented nearly 40% of all sick days. This trend continued into 2024, with long-term conditions causing 40% of sick days even though just 3.3% of cases exceeded six weeks.
AOK's data analysis highlights specific occupational disparities. Academic professions reported the fewest sick days, while physically demanding jobs had the highest. This suggests a need for targeted health interventions in specific sectors.
The rise in mental health issues, including depression and anxiety, indicates increased workplace stress. Employers are encouraged to implement health management strategies to mitigate these issues. The AOK, Germany’s largest health insurance provider, emphasizes the importance of preventive measures to address conditions with extended recovery times.
Overall, the data reflects a post-pandemic shift, with lingering health challenges in both physical and mental domains. Promoting workplace well-being could potentially lower the high sick leave rates observed in Saxony-Anhalt and beyond.
