As of 1 July 2022, nurses, occupational therapists, pharmacists and physiotherapists will be able to legally certify fit notes for statutory sick pay (SSP) purposes – something that at present only doctors can do.
The change will help reduce pressure on doctors, particularly GPs, in addition empowering 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.
The healthcare professional will need to be registered in accordance with the existing legislation governing their profession and this change will apply across England, Wales and Scotland.
This announcement is a positive step to improving the process for people who need confirmation that they are too unwell to work, and to allow GPs the time to care for patients who need their expertise.
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