Makindo Medical Notes

In the UK, fit notes (officially known as the “Statement of Fitness for Work”) are issued by General Practitioners (GPs) to patients who are unable to work due to illness or injury. Fit notes provide advice on whether the patient is 'not fit for work' or 'may be fit for work' with adjustments.

What is a Fit Note?

• A document provided by a GP or hospital doctor that gives advice about a patient’s ability to work due to a medical condition.
• Formally known as the "Statement of Fitness for Work" (Med 3).
• Required for employers when a patient has been off work for more than 7 consecutive days due to illness.

When Should a Fit Note be Issued?

• If a patient has been sick for more than 7 days, they must provide their employer with a fit note from their GP.
• Fit notes are not required for the first 7 days of illness; during this time, employees can self-certify their absence.
• Doctors may issue fit notes following consultations (either face-to-face or remote) or after reviewing clinical records.

Options on a Fit Note

Advising on 'May Be Fit for Work'

• GPs may recommend that a patient return to work with modifications or adjustments to help the patient manage their condition. These adjustments could include:
• Phased return to work (e.g., starting part-time and gradually increasing hours)
• Altered duties (e.g., lighter tasks to accommodate a physical injury)
• Flexible hours (e.g., changing start or finish times)
• Workplace adaptations (e.g., ergonomic equipment or changes in environment)
• Employers are not legally required to implement these recommendations but are encouraged to consider them in order to support the employee’s return to work.
• If the adjustments are not feasible, the fit note will still be valid as if the patient is 'not fit for work'.

Issuing Fit Notes

• Fit notes can only be issued by registered healthcare professionals (GPs or hospital doctors).
• The fit note should specify the period for which it applies (e.g., "for 2 weeks" or "until a review appointment").
• Doctors should review the patient’s clinical condition and any relevant occupational health information before issuing a fit note.

Electronic Fit Notes

• Since 2022, fit notes can be issued electronically, removing the need for physical signing and paper copies.
• GPs can issue the fit note via their clinical software, and the note is directly sent to the patient, who can forward it to their employer.

Note: Fit notes do not disclose specific medical details about the patient’s condition, and only provide advice on their fitness for work.