Study context
disability
SECONDARY
In Norway, all legal residents are included in the Norwegian public insurance system. Medically certified sick leave is compensated with 100% coverage for the first 12 months if needed, subject to certain salary limitations. The employer covers the first 16 days, while the rest is covered by the Norwegian Welfare and Labor Administration. Graded sick leave (≥20%) is encouraged when possible. Within four weeks of sick leave, the employer and the sick-listed worker must create a plan for RTW. The employer is responsible for arranging a dialogue meeting with the sick-listed worker within seven weeks of absence; other stakeholders may attend when relevant. NAV caseworkers have a counseling role in sickness absence follow-up by providing support for the employer and sick-listed worker, but they also act as a controller of eligibility for sickness benefits. However, they do not meet the sick-listed individuals routinely before a secondary dialogue meeting held around (at the latest) 26 weeks of sick leave. This meeting is only held for those who are 100% sick-listed (ie, not for graded sick leave), and they are only held if NAV caseworkers deem it necessary. However, individuals on sick leave can reach out to their caseworker for assistance or to schedule a meeting through a secure online portal. After 12 months of sick leave, it is possible to apply for more long-term medical benefits: work assessment allowance and disability pension, which both cover approximately 66% of the income.