Self certification for less than 7 days
If you have been ill for 7 days or less, you don’t need to see a doctor. You can complete a self-certification form yourself. However, some employers insist on a doctor’s note regardless. A doctor’s note under these circumstances involves a charge of £10.
Doctor’s sick/fit note for more than 7 days
If you have been ill for more than 7 days you will need a doctor’s certificate. These certificates are called “Fitness to Work” certificates.
The doctor may call you or arrange for an appointment before issuing a certificate – you will be advised on when and how to collect your certificate by the receptionist or GP.
If the reason you require a certificate for work is for convalescence following an operation or because your hospital consultant has advised you not to work, then it is that consultants responsibility to provide you with your fit note and any subsequent certificates.
Requesting an additional sick/fit note
If you have already had a sick note (fit note) for this illness your doctor may not need to see you to issue an additional sick note.
You can request a follow on fit note by using the Online Triage link (see Online Consultations) or contact the reception team.