Sick note changes may cut absences
Changes to sick notes could cut levels of long term absences
Monday March 15 2010
Changes to how doctors' sick notes are written should cut levels of long term absence from workplaces in Northern Ireland, the Government has claimed.
The tradition format of GP letters to employers is being replaced next month with a so-called 'fit note'.
This will give medics the option of stating that an employee could return to work if conditions are altered to accommodate them.
This could include reduced working hours or amended duties.
Minister for Social Development, Margaret Ritchie welcomed the change.
"Evidence demonstrates that work has a positive effect on health," said the SDLP leader.
"With the appropriate support of doctors and employers, people will be able to return to work sooner.
"The revised 'fit note' will help to achieve this by providing helpful information for people to discuss with their employer.
This is also a good thing for the economy as it can help people to get back to work, rather than to continue on long-term sick absence."
The Department for Social Development is advising doctors, employers and employees to visit www.nidirect.gov.uk/fitnote to find out more on the changes.
