What Does Reintegration Mean?
Reintegration means that after a period of illness, you return to work. Both you and your employer have the duty to support this process. The goal is to resume work as soon as possible, possibly in an adjusted role.
Responsibilities
| Party | Responsibility |
|---|---|
| Employer | Offer suitable employment, draw up a reintegration plan, continue paying salary |
| Employee | Actively cooperate, accept suitable employment, promote recovery |
| Occupational Physician | Advise, provide guidance, analyze bottlenecks |
| UWV | Assess reintegration efforts |
Steps in the Reintegration Process
- Week 1: Report illness to the employer
- Week 6: Analysis of the situation by the occupational physician
- Week 8: Drawing up an action plan
- Week 42: Report illness to 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 your own employer, in your current or another suitable position
- Second track: Seek work with another employer if return to the current one is not possible
The second track usually starts after one year, unless it is established earlier that return to the own employer is not feasible.
Consequences of Insufficient Effort
If reintegration does not proceed properly:
- Employer: Extension of wage continuation obligation (maximum 1 additional year)
- Employee: Possible suspension of salary, dismissal or lower WIA benefit
What is Suitable Work?
Work 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 believes you can handle the work. Refusal may lead to a salary suspension.
What if I disagree with the occupational physician?
You have the option to request an expert opinion from the UWV or obtain a second opinion from another occupational physician.
Who bears the costs of a reintegration agency?
Generally, the employer pays these costs, as part of the reintegration obligations.
Frequently Asked Questions about Reintegration in Zoetermeer
What happens if I refuse suitable work?
If you refuse suitable work without a valid reason, your employer may suspend your salary. The occupational physician determines whether the work is suitable. Refusal may also affect a future WIA benefit. Consult the occupational physician in case of doubt or request a second opinion from the UWV.
When does the UWV get involved in my reintegration?
After 42 weeks of illness, the UWV is involved. You must then submit a reintegration report. The UWV checks whether you and your employer 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 due to illness is not permitted. However, dismissal may occur for insufficient cooperation in 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 to the current one is not possible. This usually starts after one year.
Help in Zoetermeer
For legal support, you can go to the Juridisch Loket Zoetermeer. In addition, Zoetermeer falls under the jurisdiction of the District Court of The Hague for any legal proceedings regarding reintegration and employment disputes.