Indicators of Sick Leave in the Republic of Slovenia
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.37886/ruo.2025.003Keywords:
sick leave indicators, absenteeism, sick leave by regionsAbstract
Research Question (RQ): What are the gender-based differences in sick leave (SL) patterns in the Republic of Slovenia (RS), with respect to reasons for treatment, healthcare regions, and disease groups as classified by the International Classification of Diseases ICD-10-AM (11th edition)? Which specific disease groups, according to ICD-10-AM (11th edition), exert the greatest influence on sick leave rates, and how are these differences manifested in the duration and proportion of work absences?
Objective: The aim of the research is to thoroughly analyze the proportion of employees who were on sick leave over the past five years and to identify the predominant disease groups according to ICD-10-AM (version 11). Additionally, the research specifically examines the differences in SL between genders, regions, and specific disease groups.
Methodology: The research methodology includes the use of a descriptive method to review relevant literature, providing a comprehensive insight into existing studies and data on SL. The data were obtained from the National Institute of Public Health of the Republic of Slovenia (NIJZ, RS) and cover a five-year period. Quantitative methods were used to analyze the data, employing statistical techniques to calculate and interpret key SL indicators.
Results: The analysis of the five-year period from 2019 to 2023, which includes the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, revealed a pronounced upward trend in sick leave between 2020 and 2022, peaking in 2022. This year saw a significant increase in SL across all observed regions, with the highest proportion (7.8%) recorded in the Ravne na Koroškem region. The most common causes of sick leave during this period were infectious and parasitic diseases, with a particularly sharp rise in 2022 (569,791 cases). Additionally, musculoskeletal system and connective tissue diseases, injuries and poisoning outside of work, mental and behavioral disorders, and neoplasms were frequently observed.
Organization: An effective organizational structure that ensures optimal working conditions is crucial for maintaining the productivity and health of the working population. The findings of this research are relevant to work organizations and public institutions managing employee health and allocating financial resources for healthcare.
Society: Comprehensive awareness among the working population about the importance of a healthy lifestyle, combined with employer engagement in establishing and maintaining health-friendly work environments, forms a fundamental strategy for effectively reducing and managing SL.
Originality: The research on SL indicators by gender, reasons, regions, and the international classification ICD-10-AM (version 11) represents a significant contribution to understanding the indicators and factors influencing SL in Slovenia. Its originality lies in the comprehensive approach to the analysis, which includes both geographic and demographic aspects, as well as the use of the latest international disease classification. Furthermore, the research opens up new possibilities for the development of targeted measures and policies aimed at reducing SL, which is crucial for improving public health, the efficiency of healthcare systems, and the sustainability of the workforce.
Limitations/Further Research: The research is limited to a five-year period and focuses mainly on general SL indicators. Future research should consider extending the analysis to a longer timeframe, include different economic sectors with varying working conditions, and examine the impact of preventive measures and policies aimed at reducing SL.
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