Germany debates requiring sick notes from day one of illness

A controversy has erupted in Germany over a proposed policy that would require workers to obtain a sick note on the very first day of their illness. Currently, employees are typically given a grace period before needing medical certification. A doctors' group has strongly criticised the plan, describing it as bordering on madness. The concern is that unwell patients would be forced to visit a doctor in person just to obtain the required documentation. Critics argue the policy could strain both patients and the healthcare system unnecessarily.