Online sick note: Everything you need to know

Feeling unwell? You don’t have to go to your GP surgery to get a sick note. Thanks to technology, you can now talk to a GP online and get a sick note if you need it.

What is a sick note?

A sick note, also known as a fit note, is a document from your doctor that says you can’t work or go to school because you’re sick. It explains why you’re sick and how long you might be unwell for. Sometimes, it also gives suggestions for what you can do when you return, such as working less or having more flexible hours.

Usually, you would have to go to your local GP surgery to get a sick note. But now, you can have an online appointment where you can talk to a GP by video. This is helpful if you’re too sick to leave home or if you prefer to use an online service.

Why would you need a sick note?

Most workplaces or schools ask for a sick note if you’re absent for more than seven days. But it can be different depending on where you work.

You might need a sick note for many reasons, including:

• Common illnesses: Like the flu or a cold, which might keep you make you unwell for a few days.
• Chronic conditions: That get worse and stop you from working, like migraines, asthma or back pain.
• Mental health conditions: Like stress, anxiety or depression, which might need time off for treatment or rest.
• Injuries: That make it hard to do your job.

How can you get a sick note online?

The process of getting a sick note online is straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you understand how it works:

1. Find a Reputable Online GP Service

The first step is to find an online GP service that offers sick notes. Popular platforms include tapGP, Babylon Health, and Push Doctor. These services employ registered doctors who can provide consultations and issue sick notes if needed.

Make sure the service you choose is legitimate, with qualified healthcare professionals and secure systems to protect your personal information. You should also check if the service is registered with regulatory bodies, such as the Care Quality Commission (CQC).

2. Schedule an online consultation

Once you’ve chosen a service, you’ll need to book an online consultation. Most online services offer video and phone consultations. This flexibility allows you to choose the method that feels most comfortable for you.

Many services offer same-day appointments, which can be particularly useful if you need a sick note urgently.

3. Speak to a GP

During your appointment, the doctor will ask about your symptoms, medical history, and how long you’ve been feeling unwell. Be prepared to provide detailed information so the doctor can make an informed decision.

If your symptoms suggest you are unfit to work or attend school, the doctor will issue a sick note. Depending on the platform, you may receive the note via email or through the app, and it will usually be in a format that you can easily forward to your employer or print out.

4. Send your sick note

Once you have the sick note, it’s important to send it to your employer or school as soon as possible. Some companies have specific procedures for sending sick notes, so be sure to follow their guidelines.

If you’re unsure of how long you’ll need to recover, the doctor may provide an estimate, and you can request an extension if necessary.

What conditions can you get a sick note for?

Online GP services can issue sick notes for a wide variety of conditions. Some of the most common conditions that can be covered include:

• Respiratory illnesses: such as the common cold, flu, bronchitis, or pneumonia.
• Mental health conditions: including stress, anxiety, depression, and burnout. Mental health is increasingly recognised as a legitimate reason for time off work, and many online doctors are trained to handle these issues with sensitivity.
• Injuries: such as sprains, strains, or back pain that prevent you from carrying out your normal duties.
• Chronic conditions: such as asthma, arthritis, or migraines, which may flare up and make it difficult to work.

What are the benefits of getting a sick note online?

There are several key advantages to getting a sick note online:

1. Convenience

One of the main reasons people choose to get a sick note online is the convenience. You don’t need to travel to your GP surgery, sit in a waiting room, or take time off work to see a doctor. Instead, you can have your consultation from the comfort of your own home.

2. Speed

Many online GP services can issue a sick note within hours of your consultation, making it a fast and efficient option. This can be particularly important if you need to notify your employer quickly or if you require immediate documentation for extended time off.

3. Privacy

If you’re dealing with a sensitive condition, such as mental health issues, an online consultation can offer more privacy than a traditional GP visit. You can discuss your symptoms in the comfort of your own home, without the pressure of an in-person visit.

4. Access to qualified professionals

Most online GP services employ fully qualified and registered doctors who are trained to diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions. You’ll receive the same level of care as you would during an in-person visit, with the added benefit of being able to access the service at your convenience.

5. Flexibility

Many online GP services offer extended hours, including evenings and weekends, making it easier to fit a consultation into your schedule.

How much does an online sick note cost?

The cost of getting a sick note online varies depending on the service you use. Typically, you can expect to pay between £50 and £60 for a consultation and sick note. Some services offer subscription plans or packages that provide ongoing access to consultations and sick notes, which may be a more cost-effective option if you require frequent medical care.

Be sure to check the pricing structure before booking a consultation to avoid any unexpected fees.

Are online sick notes accepted?

In most cases, online sick notes are accepted by employers and schools in the same way as notes issued by your NHS GP. However, it’s always a good idea to check with your employer or school to ensure that they accept notes from online services.

Some employers may have specific requirements for sick notes, such as a preference for notes issued by an in-person GP or a particular format. If you’re unsure, it’s worth checking with your HR department or employer before booking an online consultation.

It’s important to note that private online fit notes cannot be used for social security or statutory pay purposes.

When might you need to see a doctor in person?

While online consultations are a convenient option for many people, there are some situations where an in-person visit may be necessary. For example:

• Severe or complex symptoms: If you’re experiencing symptoms that are difficult to diagnose or require a physical examination, the doctor may recommend seeing a GP in person.
• Long-term sick notes: If you need an extended period of time off work, your employer may request additional documentation from an in-person GP.
• Employer-specific requirements: Some employers may have policies that require sick notes to be issued by a local GP or in a specific format.

In these cases, it’s important to follow your doctor’s advice and seek in-person care if necessary.

Conclusion

Getting a sick note online is a fast, convenient, and reliable way to ensure you get the time off you need to recover from illness. With the rise of telemedicine, it’s easier than ever to access medical care from the comfort of your home. Just be sure to choose a reputable service, follow the steps outlined above, and check your employer’s policies regarding sick notes.

By taking the time to rest and recover, you’ll be able to return to work or study feeling healthier and more prepared to tackle your daily responsibilities.