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CHAPTER 03 · NETHERLANDS

Employer, employment agency, occupational health service, occupational physician and UWV

Short answer

The employer or employment agency organises sickness absence support while employment continues. The occupational physician (bedrijfsarts) independently assesses functional capacity. UWV assesses benefits and, in certain situations, takes over reintegration support.

Step by step

  1. 1

    Employer

    Processes the sickness report, continues paying wages in many cases and works with the employee on reintegration.

  2. 2

    Employment agency and hiring company

    The hiring company (inlener) passes on the report. The employment agency is usually the formal employer; the contract, collective labour agreement (CAO) and temporary employment clause determine the next steps.

  3. 3

    Occupational health service and occupational physician

    They provide support and advice on functional capacity, return to work and adjustments. Medical information is not shared with the employer.

  4. 4

    UWV or eigenrisicodrager

    UWV or the eigenrisicodrager (self-insured employer) assesses or administers the Ziektewet procedure after employment ends and may support reintegration. If it is unclear, ask who is handling your case.

Deadlines and responsibilities

  • Ask each party to confirm its role and contact details in writing.
  • Always follow the most recent official letter for deadlines.
  • Discuss medical information only with the authorised medical professional.

Documents and evidence

  • Contact list with case and telephone numbers
  • Contract and collective labour agreement (CAO)
  • Letters from the employer, occupational health service, occupational physician and UWV
  • Non-medical list of arrangements

WHEN HELP IS NEEDED

Do not wait while a deadline is running

If you receive conflicting instructions, ask who has formal decision-making authority and request written confirmation. An employer may not require your diagnosis.

General information

Grovea does not replace a doctor, lawyer, occupational physician (bedrijfsarts) or a UWV decision. Always check your personal letter and the current official source.