Shotfield Medical Practice

A fit note must be signed by a doctor but you don't always need to see your GP in person to get one.

It depends on:

• why you're off work sick
• whether your GP needs to assess you face-to-face
• if you've been in hospital

"Fit note" is the informal name for the Statement of Fitness for Work. For more information, see When do I need a fit note?

GP appointments and telephone consultations

If you need a fit note, contact your GP practice. They will tell you whether you should make an appointment to see your GP or book a phone consultation.

Your GP can issue the fit note on the day they assess you or at any time after the assessment.

Hospital treatment

If you have been in hospital, a hospital doctor can issue a fit note, as well as a certificate to confirm that you have been an inpatient.

What if I've already seen another healthcare professional?

You may already have seen another registered healthcare professional, such as a:

• nurse
• physiotherapist
• occupational therapist

In this case, your GP can base your fit note on a report written by that registered healthcare professional. For example:

• a hospital discharge summary or hospital letter
• notes from a previous consultation with another GP at the same practice

Further information:

• When do I need a fit note? 
• Can I go back to work before the end date on my fit note?
• Workplace health  
• GOV.UK: taking sick leave
• GOV.UK: fit note guidance for patients and employees