Fit Note Policy

Our Surgery aims to design and implement policies and procedures that meet the diverse needs of our service and workforce, ensuring that none are placed at a disadvantage over others, in accordance with the Equality Act 2010. Consideration has been given to the impact this policy might have regarding the individual protected characteristics of those to whom it applies.

Fit Note

A ‘fit note’ is the informal name for a Statement of Fitness for Work. This is also referred to as a sick note, med cert, med 3 or doctor’s note. It was introduced in April 2010 across England, Wales and Scotland.

A fit note is used to provide advice to a patient about their ability to work and to support a claim to health-related benefits through the DWP. Likewise, it is used as medical evidence for employers

What is a fit note used for?

A fit notes is issued to a patient following an assessment of their fitness for work and is provided after the first seven days of sickness absence as, prior to this, patients can self-certify.

Following an assessment, should the clinician believe that the patient’s health affects their fitness for work, the clinician can decide if the patient is unfit for work or may

only be fit for work subject to advice with accompanying notes on suggested adjustments or adaptations to the job role or workplace.

What fitness options are available to the patient?

Should a patient require a fit note then, following the assessment, the clinician will decide how the patient’s health will affect their fitness for work. If it is considered that this will be difficult to undertake, then a fit note can be issued to advise that the patient is either

· Not fit for work

· May be fit for work considering the following advice…

Note, the clinician may choose the second option should they believe that the patient is able to do some work, even if it is not their usual role, but with support from the employer

The clinician will then advise the patient to discuss this advice with their employer to ascertain if a return to work is feasible. An example may be that possible changes include:

· A return to work gradually, for example, by starting back on a part time basis

· Temporarily working different hours

· Performing different duties or tasks

· Having other support to do the patient’s job. For example, if the patient has back pain, heavy lifting should be avoided

Ordinarily, should the employer not be able to accommodate any considered changes as advised by the clinician, then the patient should be considered as being ‘unfit for work’ and the fit note treated as such.

Charges for a fit note

At Woodlawn & Oaklane Medical Centre, there is a fee applicable (please ask reception for more details)