Legislation Change Gives More Healthcare Professionals Power To Certify Fit Notes

• Published date: 04 July 2022
• Law Firm: Harrison Drury Solicitors
• Author: Ms Grace McGarvey

New legislation to enable a wider range of healthcare professionals to certify fit notes has been introduced by the UK government to ease pressure on GPs. Grace McGarvey, a legal apprentice in Harrison Drury's employment law team, explains the role of a fit note and the reasons for the change.

From July 1, 2022, nurses, occupational therapists, pharmacists and physiotherapists (working in hospitals and GP practices) will be able to certify and issue fit notes - which up until now, only doctors were able to issue.

The law change will apply across England, Wales and Scotland and aims to simplify the process of issuing and receiving fit notes.

What is a fit note?

Individuals that are off work 'sick' for more than seven days will usually be asked by their...