New rules for getting a sick note has come into force today meaning it will now be easier to get time off work. The changes mean that nurses, occupational therapists, pharmacists and physiotherapists will be able to sign people off from work as well as doctors.
Healthcare professionals issue sick notes to provide evidence to employers that a person has been advised to have time off. They record details of the patient's condition so that the employer can consider ways to help them return to work.
The requirement for the healthcare worker to sign the form in ink has been removed and replaced by the issuer's name and profession. The government has warn that there will be a period of time when both the new and old versions of sick notes will be used and remain valid.
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Healthcare professionals will still only give fit notes (sick notes) if a patients health affects their fitness for work. If a person is considered fit for work, they do not need a sick note.
A sick note is not required if you are off for seven days or less. The government say these changes aim to provide a seamless, faster system for patients and help to improve the continuity of care.
They hope the change will reduce bureaucracy in the healthcare system and it is expected that patients and employers will see benefits from it.
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