sjúkratryggingar

Sjúkratryggingar is the Icelandic sickness insurance component of the country’s social security system. It provides financial protection against loss of income during periods of illness, injury, pregnancy and childbirth, or other situations that prevent a person from working. The scheme also supports rehabilitation and return to work.

The administration and funding of Sjúkratryggingar come from compulsory social security contributions paid by employers and employees. The system is administered by Sjúkratryggingar Íslands as part of the national social security framework, working in conjunction with other agencies that manage health and welfare services.

Benefits and eligibility are tied to being insured under the social security system. Eligible individuals may receive sickness benefits if they are unable to work due to illness or injury for a defined period, and there are related benefits during maternity/paternity leave and for caregiving responsibilities. The benefit amount is typically a portion of prior earnings, subject to limits, and payments continue for a specified duration. Eligibility generally requires ongoing contributions and meeting residence or other qualifying conditions; self-employed individuals may be able to participate under separate rules.

Claims are usually initiated with medical certification, such as a doctor’s note, and processed by Sjúkratryggingar Íslands. The scheme coordinates with the public health system, emphasizing income replacement rather than provision of medical treatment.

Private health or disability insurance can supplement the government scheme, offering additional coverage or faster benefits, but Sjúkratryggingar provides the baseline income protection during illness and related eligibility periods.