Abstract
Background: Absenteeism from work is a major concern in Slovenia (population two million), impacting both the economy and the well-being of individuals. A rise in absenteeism rates in recent years has been observed, leading to increased healthcare costs and decreased productivity. According to OECD data, Slovenia ranks third among member states in the number of days lost due to absenteeism per person per year (18,1 days/person/year). It may be interesting to know that the number of absentees who have been on sick leave in stock for more than five years was 328 on October 31st, 2023. To know the human resources available to us is crucial for developing effective strategies to mitigate its impact.
Financial Burden: The increase of absenteeism in numbers and longevity with the associated cost of lost productivity represent a large financial burden for the employers and the Health Insurance Institute of Slovenia (HIIS). Altogether, the Health Insurance Institute of Slovenia (HIIS) has seen absenteeism costs borne by it rise from EUR 225 million in 2013 to EUR 315 million in 2017, then to EUR 442 million in 2020 and to EUR 498 million in 2021. Undoubtedly, the increase in absenteeism is affected by the COVID-19 epidemic, but the trend is older, and the epidemic only intensified it.
Provider Resources for Reduction of Absenteeism from work in Slovenia: Among the providers occupational medicine and family medicine specialist in health centers and solo practices, experts (psychologists, social workers, etc, …) in health promotion and health education departments, together with experts in mental health departments in community health centers and other necessary experts from the outside, could all collaborate in reducing absenteeism. Additionally, initiatives promoting employee health and well-being, such as stress management programs and work-life balance policies, could be implemented.
Collaborative Approach: An integrated solution could be provided by these experts with people as partners by harmonizing payments in a model that would be based on the bundled payment of services, by considering accessible digitization solutions, and by insisting on transparency in showing results, impact on society and progress.
Establishment of an Action Plan: To combat absenteeism efficiently, an action plan that encompasses preventive measures, early identification, and timely intervention would be recommended. It should incorporate a multi-level approach, addressing individual, workplace, and societal factors. HIIS should primarily deal with the establishment of financial and other incentives under existing and future legislation for the implementation of integrated payments, most likely in the form of bundled payments. Implementation of evidence-based strategies, such as health promotion campaigns, mental health support, and workplace accommodations, that can significantly contribute to reducing absenteeism rates, would be a logical and natural consequence of the previously mentioned HIIS activities.
Conclusion: Absenteeism from work poses a substantial financial and human burden in Slovenia, necessitating a collaborative approach among healthcare professionals. By utilizing available human resources, the negative impact of absenteeism could possibly be mitigated. Integrated care, involving various stakeholders, is crucial to develop comprehensive solutions that address the causes of absenteeism and promote overall workplace well-being.