Sickness Benefits Act and reintegration: What are your rights?

Questioner

I injured my back on 23-1-2014 and was sick at home because of it. I tried several times in the months that followed, starting with a few hours and then expanding it to half a working day, but that still didn't work. The company doctor advised me to follow the reintegration program at Heliomare. I was very skeptical about this, but as time went on it got better and better. I started in September with half days, and with the necessary ups and downs I am now working full days again. My employer and the company doctor say that I will remain on sick leave until 23 January 2016, but is that allowed and how long do I have to work full days to get out of sick leave, if there is a term for that?

Lawyer

If the company doctor finds that you are fit for work again, you must be reported better. Unless you are still reintegrating. What strikes me is that the employer wants to extend the period of illness to exactly two years. If you are still ill then, the employer may dismiss you. I advise you to make an appointment with the company doctor and ask him why you are not reported as better.

Lawyer

In addition to the above, you can also request an expert opinion via the UWV if you do not agree with the company doctor/employer.