Second track reintegration process fails. What now?

If 2nd track reintegration fails, this can have major consequences, such as a wage penalty from the UWV. The cause often lies in a combination of late start-up, poor communication or insufficient commitment.

Why does a second track process fail?

There are various reasons why reintegration of the 2nd track does not produce the desired results. Below are the most common ones:

1. Late start of the second track route

The process must be completed at the latest week 52 are started. If you start later, there is less time left for relocation. The UWV sees this as insufficient effort, with a wage penalty as a possible result.

2. Inadequate file structure and planning

A process without good reporting, personal guidance and evaluation moments will fail more quickly. Many employers underestimate how much time and attention this requires.

3. Too much pressure on the employee

If an employee is mentally overworked, too much pressure is counterproductive. Think of burnout or worsening of symptoms. Reintegration requires realistic goals and appropriate steps.

4. Disrupted employment relationship

A poor relationship between employer and employee is an important failure factor. Distrust, frustration or misunderstanding stand in the way of recovery and cooperation.

5. Incorrect assessment by the company doctor

Although the employer may rely on the company doctor's opinion, the UWV remains critical. It UWV assesses itself whether the process went correctly — and ultimately puts the responsibility on the employer.

6. Refusal or inaction on the part of the employee

If an employee does not cooperate, is poorly contacted or rejects any suitable position, this slows down or blocks the process. This can also have negative consequences for benefit rights.

7. Doing it yourself as an employer without expertise

Some employers supervise the second track themselves to save costs. But the second track is complex and requires specialist knowledge. Without experience and structure, the process is often insufficiently substantiated.

How do you increase the chances of a successful second track?

Fortunately, there are also clear success factors that significantly increase the success rate of a process:

1. Realistic employee expectations

A suitable position is not always the dream job. Those who only look for “ideal” work are limiting their opportunities. Acceptance of realistic options is crucial.

2. Strong file formation and personal contact

A good reintegration file is essential for the UWV assessment. But underestimate the importance of personal attention and guidance not — both are necessary.

3. Timely start of the second track

Don't wait too long. The second track may even start while the first track is still running. The sooner you start, the greater the chance of success and the lower the risk of sanctions.

4. Correct assessment by the company doctor

An accurate assessment of resilience and employability forms the basis for appropriate positions. An assessment that is too optimistic or too cautious can damage the process.

5. Using a professional reintegration agency

Reintegration is a profession. A specialized agency has the knowledge, experience and network to successfully guide employees to new work.

What does the UWV do if the second track fails?

After 104 weeks of illness, it assesses UWV whether employer and employee have made sufficient efforts. In addition, the UWV looks at:

• It moment of start-up of the 2nd track
• The content and quality of the reintegration file
• The level of cooperation and communication
• Resources used and guidance

If the process is not sufficiently substantiated or started too late, a wage penalty: the employer must then continue to pay wages for up to one year longer.

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Summary: this is how you prevent 2nd track reintegration from failing

A failed second track process is often the result of a late start, poor communication or insufficient cooperation. Do you want to increase your chances of success?

Then pay attention to this:

• Start before week 52 with the process
• Provide a well-founded file and personal guidance
• Communicate openly and respectfully with the employee
• Let the company doctor have a careful assessment render
• Don't expect a perfect job, but realistic relocation
• Switch one experienced reintegration agency in for guidance and legal certainty

This way, you not only comply with the Gatekeeper Improvement Act, but you also reduce the risk of wage sanctions and increase the chance of returning to work sustainably.

Looking for guidance with a track 2 process?

Care4Careers supports employers and employees with expert guidance, customized solutions and complete file structure. Feel free to contact us.

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