The Assembly determines the maximum duration of the work stoppage

Lawmakers voted Sunday night in favor of a measure limiting the duration of a work stoppage to 30 days for a first prescription and two months in the event of an extension. However, exceptions may be made if justified by the patient’s situation.

The National Assembly approved, Sunday evening, November 9, limits on the duration of the work stoppage: a maximum of one month for the first prescription, and a maximum of two months for extensions. This step was taken as part of an examination of the first reading of the draft Social Security budget for 2026. However, doctors could deviate from the planned ceiling. “in relation to the patient’s situation” and justify it in their recipes.

The government initially wanted to set these limits by decree, namely fifteen days for the first work stoppage determined by the city doctor, and thirty days in hospital. However the socialist amendment was adopted, so the time period would be one month in both cases, and the time period would be fixed in law and not left to the executive. This was a spare amendment, as the socialists initially wanted, like the communists, the Ecologist and the LFI, to abolish the regulation.

“In areas where there is a shortage of doctors, (…) sick people are returning to work because they have not been able to get an appointment with a doctor to extend their leave”has warned PS MP Sandrine Runel. “This article introduces the logic of suspicion towards caregivers and insured persons”also criticized Paul-André Colombani, a representative of the independent Liot group.

To justify this action, executives specifically pointed to the growth in per diem expenditures. “11 billion (in euros) of sick leave expenses, more than 6% per year for 5 years”argued the Minister of Health, Stéphanie Rist.

According to the report attached to the draft Social Security budget, such measures will be implemented “as a result of an increase in the number of medical consultations”. But go back to the doctor more often “will enable better patient monitoring and care”, defended Stéphanie Rist, who was open to the socialist amendment by emphasizing its benefits “simplification”.

There is no maximum duration of sick leave planned at present, although there are recommendations for certain pathologies, with indicative durations. The insured person is also subject to a maximum daily allowance of 360 days for three years.