Statement of Fitness for Work

Question 1

In 2010, sick notes became what?

Answer 1

Statement of Fitness for Work notes

“Fit notes”

Question 2

What forms does the Statement of Fitness for Work replace?

Answer 2

Med3 and Med5 forms - they both are contained in the Statement of Fitness for Work.

Question 3

What replaces the Med4, Med6 and RM 7 forms?

(These were part of Incapacity Benefit)

Answer 3

Employment and Support Allowance

Question 4

Can you assess if someone is fit for work over the telephone?

Answer 4

Yes, you can.

Question 5

On the new “Statement of Fitness for Work” forms, do they have a box to say a patient is fit for work

OR

Is there an option to state if you need to assess your patient’s fitness for work again at the end of the statement period?

Answer 5

There is an option to state if you need to assess your patient’s fitness for work again at the end of the statement period.

Question 6

How long can a new Statement of Fitness for Work be issued for (in the first 6 months of an illness)?

Answer 6

3 months.

After this the Statement of Fitness for Work can be issued indefinitely.

Question 7

Who can complete a Statement of Fitness for Work form?

Answer 7

Only a doctor.

Question 8

Is the advice binding on employers?

Answer 8

No

Question 9

When can the statement of fitness for work be issued?

Answer 9

1. On the day that you assessed the patient
2. On a date after you assessed your patient if you consider that it would have been reasonable to issue a statement on the day of the assessment
3. After consideration of a written report from another doctor or registered health care professional

Question 10

What are the 4 tick box options to aid in returning a patient to work?

Answer 10

• A phased return to work
• Altered hours
• Amended duties
• Workplace adaptations

Question 11

Can you tick 1 of the “tick boxes” or can you tick more than 1?

Answer 11

More than 1

Question 12

How long can a patient self certify for?

Answer 12

The first 7 calendar days

Question 13

What is the SC1 form?

Answer 13

It is self certification for patients not eligible to claim statutory sick pay (e.g. unemployed or self-employed).

It is for the first 7 calendar days of an illness

Question 14

What is the SC2 form?

Answer 14

The ‘standard’ self-certification form, for patients eligible to claim statutory sick pay. For the first 7 calendar days of an illness.