Range of healthcare professionals to be given the power to certify fit notes
As of 1 July 2022, there will be another change to the rules on Statements of Fitness for Work (“fit notes”).
At present, only doctors can issue fit notes but, from that date, nurses, occupational therapists, pharmacists and physiotherapists will also be able to certify and issue fit notes.
Fit notes are issued to individuals who have been off work with illness for more than seven days and provide evidence to their employer about the absence along with relevant advice as to how to support the employee to remain in, or return to, work. The intention behind this legislative change is to reduce the pressure on GPs and to support better conversations about work and health between employers and staff by making it easier to get advice certified by the most relevant healthcare professional.
The full guidance can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/more-healthcare-professionals-given-powers-to-certify-fit-notes.