What Does Reintegration Mean?
Reintegration is the process of returning to work after a period of illness. Both the employer and the employee are obligated to cooperate in this process, with the goal of resuming work (possibly in an adjusted role) as soon as possible.
Responsibilities
| Party | Responsibility |
|---|---|
| Employer | Offer suitable work, draft a reintegration plan, continue salary payments |
| Employee | Actively cooperate, accept suitable work, promote recovery |
| Occupational Health Physician | Provide guidance, give advice, draft problem analysis |
| UWV (Employee Insurance Agency) | Monitor whether reintegration efforts are sufficient |
Steps in the Reintegration Process
- Week 1: Report illness to the employer
- Week 6: Situation analysis by the occupational health physician
- Week 8: Compile reintegration plan
- Week 42: Report illness to the UWV
- Week 52: Evaluation after the first year
- Week 88: Final assessment and application for WIA benefit
First and Second Track Reintegration
The Two Tracks
- First track: Return to the current employer, in the same or a different role
- Second track: Seek employment with another employer if returning to the current employer is not feasible
The second track typically begins after one year, unless it is established earlier that returning to the current employer is impossible.
Consequences of Insufficient Effort
If reintegration does not proceed adequately, sanctions may follow:
- Employer: Extension of the obligation to continue salary payments (maximum of 1 additional year)
- Employee: Suspension of salary, dismissal, or reduced WIA benefit
What is Suitable Work?
Work is considered suitable if:
- It matches your physical and mental capabilities
- It does not pose a risk to your health
- It is acceptable in terms of travel distance and job level
Am I obligated to accept different work within the company?
Yes, if the occupational health physician determines that you are capable of performing the work. Refusal may result in a salary suspension.
What if I disagree with the occupational health physician's assessment?
You have the option to request a second opinion from another occupational health physician or an expert opinion from the UWV.
Who bears the costs for a reintegration agency?
Generally, the employer covers these costs as part of their reintegration obligations.
Frequently Asked Questions about Reintegration in Rijswijk
What happens if I refuse suitable work?
If you refuse suitable work without valid reason, your employer may suspend your salary. The occupational health physician determines whether the work is suitable. Refusal may also affect a future WIA benefit. If in doubt, consult the occupational health physician or request a second opinion via the UWV.
When does the UWV become involved in my reintegration?
The UWV becomes involved after 42 weeks of illness. You must then submit a reintegration report. The UWV checks whether you and your employer have made sufficient efforts. After 88 weeks, a final assessment follows for a possible WIA benefit.
Can I be dismissed during illness?
During the first two years of illness, there is a prohibition on dismissal. Dismissal due to illness is not permitted but may occur due to insufficient cooperation in reintegration or for economic reasons. After two years, the UWV may allow dismissal if reintegration is unsuccessful.
What is the difference between the first and second track?
The first track focuses on returning to your current employer, possibly in a different role. The second track involves finding work with another employer if returning to your current employer is not possible. This usually starts after one year of illness.
Relevant Authorities in Rijswijk: For legal support, you can contact the Legal Counter Rijswijk. Cases are often handled by the District Court of The Hague (jurisdiction).