Republika Srpska faces rising sick leave abuse

Abuse of sick leave is steadily increasing in Republika Srpska, with an average of more than 6,000 workers on leave per month this year. This trend has led to more frequent requests from employers for extraordinary inspections.

Last year, 500 extraordinary inspections of temporary incapacity for work were conducted, resulting in 105 cases where irregularities were identified. Business owners report that fraudulent sick leave can cost the private sector several thousand marks per employee annually.

Medical professionals note that while family doctors can prescribe leave for up to 30 days, patients are required to report for regular controls. For longer periods or specific diagnoses, patients must appear before a primary commission for an assessment of their capacity to work. According to Vladimir Šormaz from the Institute for Occupational Medicine and Sports of Republika Srpska, the commission performs a physical examination of medical documentation to decide whether to extend or conclude the leave.