What Does Reintegration Entail?
Reintegration is the process of returning to work after a period of illness. Both the employer and the employee bear responsibility for supporting this process. The aim is to return to work as soon as possible, possibly in an adapted role.
Responsibilities of Involved Parties
| Party | Responsibility |
|---|---|
| Employer | Offer suitable employment, draw up a reintegration plan, continue paying salary |
| Employee | Actively cooperate, accept suitable employment, promote recovery |
| Occupational Physician | Provide guidance, give advice, conduct problem analysis |
| UWV | Check whether reintegration efforts are sufficient |
Steps in the Reintegration Trajectory
- Week 1: Report illness to the employer
- Week 6: Analysis of the situation by the occupational physician
- Week 8: Draw up 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 own employer, in the same or an adapted role
- Second track: Seek work with another employer if return is not possible
The second track often starts after one year, unless it becomes clear earlier that return to the own employer is not feasible.
Possible Sanctions
In case of insufficient effort for reintegration:
- Employer: Extension of wage continuation obligation (maximum 1 additional year)
- Employee: Suspension of salary, dismissal, or lower WIA benefit
What is Suitable Employment?
Employment is considered suitable if:
- It matches your physical and mental capacities
- It poses no risk to your health
- It is feasible in terms of travel time and job level
Am I required to accept other work within the company?
Yes, if the occupational physician determines that you are capable of performing this work. Refusal may lead to a wage stop.
What if I disagree with the occupational physician?
You can request a second opinion from another occupational physician or submit an expert opinion to the UWV.
Who bears the costs for a reintegration agency?
Usually, the employer pays these costs, as part of the reintegration obligations.
Frequently Asked Questions about Reintegration in Westland
What happens if I refuse suitable work?
If you refuse suitable work without a valid reason, your employer may stop your salary. The occupational physician assesses whether the work is suitable. Refusal may also impact a future WIA benefit. Consult the occupational physician in case of doubt or request a second opinion via the UWV.
When is the UWV involved in my trajectory?
The UWV becomes involved after 42 weeks of illness. You must then submit a reintegration report. The UWV checks whether both parties have done enough. 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, a dismissal ban applies. Dismissal is only possible in case of insufficient cooperation with reintegration or for business economic reasons. After two years, the UWV may permit dismissal if reintegration is not successful.
What is the difference between first and second track?
The first track focuses on return to your current employer, possibly in a different role. The second track concerns work with another employer if return proves impossible. This often starts after one year of illness.
Relevant Agencies in Westland: For legal support, you can contact Juridisch Loket Westland. Disputes fall under the District Court of The Hague (district).