What is the difference between a fit note and a sick note?
The key difference between the old sick notes and the new fit note is that previously GPs had to say if the individual was, or was not, fit to work. Now GPs can advise that the employee is either: • not fit for work, or • may be fit for work taking account of the’ following advice’ It is the second option which reflects the fundamental difference. An employee may have some health problems, but this does not necessarily prevent them from working. If the GP opts for the second option this means their view is that the employee may be fit for work in some capacity. So, what happens if the GP had said they “may be fit for work”? The GP should have tried to suggest ways of helping an employee get back to work, outlining on the note the work that the employee can do in spite of their illness. The GP should give advice about the effects of the employee’s health condition and some suggestions about the types of adjustment employer could consider in order to help the employee back to work. Once
