The Social Insurance Institution (ZUS) in the first half of 2024 conducted a evidence number of medical sick leave checks. Thanks to the implementation of modern technologies specified as artificial intelligence, many irregularities have been detected, which has brought awesome financial results. Find out what changes have taken place in the control strategy and how to avoid harsh penalties for misuse of L4.
Revolution in Controls: How does ZUS usage fresh Technologies?
In the first half of 2024, ZUS carried out as many as 260,8 1000 inspections of persons on sick leave. This is simply a crucial increase compared to erstwhile years. The key component of this change is the implementation of modern technologies, including artificial intelligence, which greatly improves control processes. Thanks to these technologies, ZUS could process documentation and identify irregularities faster, which allowed to save PLN 117.5 million in the first half of 2024 – by PLN 32 million more than in the same period last year.
What changed in Controls?
New control methods have tangible effects. Here's what changed in the ZUS approach to supervision of medical exemptions:
1. usage of artificial intelligence: Modern technologies let faster processing of data and detecting irregularities. Artificial intelligence analyses medical records, allowing more effective capture of fraud.
2. Increased number of controls: The increase in the number of checks carried out shows increased supervision and greater engagement of the Social safety Office in the elimination of fraud.
3. Precision monitoring: ZUS monitors whether people on sick leave actually follow the doctor’s instructions, allowing faster and more accurate detection of irregularities.
What Practices Are Unacceptable during Medical Release?
It is worth remembering that medical release should only be utilized for the intent of wellness regeneration. Here's what to avoid:
1. Performing work: Any gainful activity during the dismissal is prohibited and may consequence in failure of the allowance.
2. Organizing events or trips: Medical leave is not an chance to extend weekends or holidays.
3. Repairs or intensive housework: Even if the medical release does not contain the endorsement ‘sickness should lie down’, dense housework and renovation should be avoided.
Consequences Abuse: What Threats for Misuse of L4?
ZUS closely controls whether people on release follow the doctor’s instructions. Where irregularities are detected, serious sanctions shall be imposed:
1. Withdrawal or suspension of the allowance: ZUS may revoke the sickness allowance for the full period of dismissal and impose a refund of the funds paid.
2. Discipline exemption: The employer may terminate the employment contract without payment of remuneration for the period of dismissal.
How to avoid problems with the Social safety Office?
To avoid serious financial consequences, follow the following principles:
- Follow your doctor’s instructions: Follow the endorsements on medical release and avoid actions that may be considered to be in breach of L4 conditions.
- Avoid abuse: Do not usage your medical release to handle individual matters that may be considered incompatible with your purpose.
- Monitor your exemptions regularly: Check that your actions comply with the rules and do not exposure yourself to the hazard of sanctions.
The evidence number of medical exemptions checks in the first half of 2024 is simply a signal that the Social safety Office does not tolerate abuse and effectively implement fresh technologies to improve supervision. Be aware of the applicable rules to avoid problems and unnecessary penalties.
Continued here:
ZUS on the way Abuse! How do fresh Technologies aid in Medical Exemption Controls?
