Fit note moves into the digital age

The fit note has had another re-fit. Last year the DWP implemented two significant changes. The first removed the need for a wet signature which meant that notes could be issued electronically. Doctors used to be the only point of call to certify fit notes and the second change allowed nurses, occupational therapists, pharmacists, and physiotherapists to issue fit notes.

The latest change is to embed fit notes in primary care settings (GP's IT systems) - which should make them available to everyone obtaining a fit note from their GP, and efforts are being made to make them available in secondary care settings such as hospitals. 

The government has updated its guidance on fit notes to reflect these changes. 

General rules around fit notes

These are unchanged. Fit notes can only be issued if a healthcare professional determines that the employee's fitness for work is impaired. If someone is considered fit for work, they will not be given a fit note.

1. Employees can self-certify for the first seven calendar days of their sickness absence. If medical evidence is required during this period, the healthcare professional may charge a fee, which you'll have to pay for. 
2. The length of a fit note depends on the healthcare professional's clinical judgement. In the first six months of a health condition, a fit note can only be issued for a maximum of three months at a time. A review date can be set if needed.
3. Other forms of medical evidence, such as private medical certificates or Allied Healthcare Professionals Work Report, can be accepted as medical evidence instead of a fit note but only if you agree to accept these. 
4. Fit notes can be handwritten, computer-generated, or sent digitally. They must include the issuer's name, profession, and the address of the medical practice.
5. If a fit note is issued following hospital treatment, a Med10 form may also be provided, which contains information about the dates of hospitalisation and the period of the health condition or disability it covers.

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