Sick leave after gallstone surgery – medical certificate, applications, and information

After gallstone surgery, sick leave is required for recovery. The duration of sick leave depends on the type of surgery and the individual’s condition:

• Laparoscopic surgery: usually 1–4 weeks, depending on physical demands at work.
• Open (classic) surgery: 3–6 weeks, as recovery is longer due to a larger incision and extended hospital stay.

Electronic medical certificate and applications:

• The medical certificate is issued by the personal doctor, usually during a follow-up appointment or by agreement.
• The certificate must be issued on time, typically by the end of the month for which sick leave is claimed.
• The personal doctor is responsible for timely issuance and entry into the SPOT system.

Eligible persons for wage compensation

• Insured employees, self-employed persons, professional athletes, and farmers, if insured.
• Unemployed persons are entitled only if they had the right to compensation before certain legal changes.

Exercising the right

• The employer pays the wage compensation, and ZZZS reimburses it after the claim is submitted.
• Self-employed persons submit a special written application to ZZZS.
• If the employee’s employment ends during sick leave, ZZZS can pay the compensation directly to the employee.

What to do during recovery

• Rest and gradually return to daily and physical activities.
• Follow dietary instructions to aid recovery.
• Attend regular check-ups with the doctor and have stitches or drains removed as instructed.

Legal basis
Rights are based on the Health Care and Health Insurance Act, the Employment Relationships Act, and ZZZS regulations regarding temporary work absence and wage compensation.

Required applications and attachments

• Electronic medical certificate.
• Proof of justified absence from work.
• Special forms for blood donation, if applicable.