The inquiry shows that fewer people return to work after sick leave. Photo: Johan Bjurer/Mostphotos

The report, in which Peter Skogman Thoursie, Professor of Economics at Stockholm University, has been one of the investigators, evaluates the recent reforms within the sickness insurance system that took place during 2021 and 2022. The aim with government mission is to evaluate the effects of these reforms on individuals’ sick leave, labor supply, and incomes. The report was handed over to the Minister for Older People and Social Security Anna Tenje in early April.

We can conclude that the effect has been that more people remain on sick leave instead of returning to work.

In Svenska Dagbladet, the investigators write: ”We have evaluated the recent rules for sick leave with greater opportunities for rehabilitation. And we can conclude that the effect has been that more people remain on sick leave instead of returning to work.”

The government report has been questioned in several media outlets. Some of the criticism concerns the risk of people being denied sickness benefits after day 180. The authors of the report write that critics overlook that even with previous legislation it is possible to receive sickness benefits beyond day 180 for those who lack work capacity. Critics also argue ”that the intention of sickness insurance is to function as a basic economic security.” For that purpose, there are other systems, the investigators respond.

Peter Skogman Thoursie’s research primarily focuses on labour economics. Read an interview with him in connection with the submission of the report:

Investigation proposes renewed sickness insurance

Read the debate article Svenska Dagbladet (in Swedish)