![]() Minister for Disabled People, Health and Work Chloe Smith MP said: “The extension of fit note certification is fantastic news for patients, making it easier for them to get the support and advice they need from the right place, ensuring where possible that they are able to remain in work. This change will be delivered in general practice and hospital settings." A DWP spokesperson said: “The change, the most significant since the fit note’s inception in 2010, will support and empower better conversations about work and health between employers and staff by making it easier to get this advice certified by the most relevant healthcare professional. It will also make it easier to show proof to an employer for sick pay purposes. It comes after the introduction of digital certifying of sick notes in April this year which was designed to “simplify the process of issuing and receiving fit notes,” according to the DWP, and reduce “unnecessary bureaucracy” as the NHS deals with the backlog caused by the Covid pandemic. Those healthcare professionals given the extra powers include specialist nurses such as a diabetes specialist nurse (DSN) or geriatric nurse, occupational therapists, pharmacists, and physiotherapists. ![]() ![]() Read more: The Netherlands still has a Covid vaccination requirement for British tourists Fit notes, which are officially called the The Statement of Fitness for Work, are needed if a person has been off work with an illness for more than seven days. The Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) added that it would reduce “unnecessary bureaucracy” as the NHS tackles the Covid-19 backlog. The change to the rules is aimed at easing pressure on NHS doctors and GPs amidst a crisis in recruitment across the UK. Previously a doctor had to dish out the forms meaning people had to secure an appointment with their local GP - never an easy task.īut now ‘fit notes’ can be certified by doctors, nurses, occupational therapists, pharmacists and physiotherapists, meaning that far more health workers can make that decision. Changes to how sick notes are given out have come into effect today (July 1) and are set to make it a lot easier to get for millions of ill patients.
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