Fit Notes in General Practice (UK)
📄 In the UK, fit notes (officially called the “Statement of Fitness for Work” or Med 3) are issued by GPs or hospital doctors when patients are unable to work due to illness or injury. They state whether a patient is “not fit for work” or “may be fit for work” with adjustments. Fit notes are important for both medical management and workplace support. 💼
📝 What is a Fit Note?
- A formal document provided by a GP or hospital doctor regarding a patient’s work capacity.
- Also known as the "Statement of Fitness for Work" (Med 3 form).
- Required by employers if a patient has been off work for more than 7 consecutive days.
- For absences ≤ 7 days, employees can self-certify without a fit note.
📅 When Should a Fit Note Be Issued?
- Issued if illness extends beyond 7 days of absence.
- Can be provided after a consultation (face-to-face, telephone, or video) or review of records.
- Doctors should reassess if the condition persists and a new fit note is needed.
⚖️ Options on a Fit Note
| Option |
Description |
| ❌ Not Fit for Work |
The patient is too unwell to work and should refrain from all duties until recovery. |
| ⚠️ May Be Fit for Work |
The patient could return to work if modifications are made, such as altered hours, reduced duties, or workplace adaptations. |
👩⚕️ Advising on “May Be Fit for Work”
- Possible adjustments may include:
- 📆 Phased return: start part-time, increase gradually.
- 🛠️ Altered duties: lighter or modified tasks.
- ⏰ Flexible hours: adjusted start or finish times.
- 🏢 Workplace adaptations: ergonomic equipment or environment changes.
- Employers are not legally bound to follow these recommendations but are encouraged to support employees where possible.
- If adjustments aren’t possible, the fit note functions as if the patient is “not fit for work.”
📌 Issuing Fit Notes
- Only registered healthcare professionals (GPs or hospital doctors) can issue them.
- Fit notes should specify the duration (e.g., “2 weeks” or “until review”).
- Doctors should consider both medical and occupational factors before issuing.
💻 Electronic Fit Notes
- Since 2022, fit notes can be issued electronically (no physical signature required).
- Delivered via clinical software and shared digitally with patients for forwarding to employers.
💡 Pearl: Fit notes focus on work capacity, not diagnosis. They do not disclose specific medical details, protecting patient confidentiality while guiding employers on workplace adjustments. 🔐
