Reform of the occupational diseases law: effects in practice

Due to the reform of the occupational disease law in Germany as of 01.01.2021 with the abolition of the obligation to refrain, the prerequisites for the recognition of an occupational disease No. 5101 have been considerably facilitated. Since then, the criterion of severity has been the main prerequisite. The criterion of severity results from the response of the occupationally caused or aggravated skin disease to dermatological therapy and prevention. Legal recognition as an occupational disease results in advantages for patients and dermatologists with regard to cost coverage and the range of therapeutic measures. The dermatologist's report and the dermatological procedure - as special features of the German health care system - remain the central elements with regard to the notification and dermatological care of patients with occupational dermatoses.