subject: Understanding Fit Note [print this page] Understanding Fit Note Understanding Fit Note
In these politically correct times, you might be forgiven for thinking that replacing the traditional doctor's sick note with the new fit note' is just another red tape avoidance technique to stop discrimination by labelling people sick.' However, it is not just the optimistic tone that has now changed, and many employees and employers are still unaware of exactly what the implications of the new fit note are.
Rather than being focussed on patient's inability to work, the new fit note is entirely aimed and aiding them in returning to work, after extensive research proved that going back to work is a great step in speeding up recovery and avoiding the mental health issues often associated with long term absence.
Rather than the GP simply setting a date, the employer now plays a more vital role in supporting their employee and getting them back to work. Occupational health nurses are also integral to the new system.
Changing the way that patients are assessed has highlighted the importance of occupational health advisors and therapists within the workplace. Understanding how individuals can be accommodated in the workplace is hugely important for both employer and employee. Occupational health recruitment agencies are becoming a bigger part of developing that understanding, with smaller companies who are unable to offer full time occupational health jobs being able to source qualified practitioners to consult as and when is necessary.
These occupational health recruitment agencies are a major part in facilitating the return to work for many who would have previously been classed unfit, by suggesting relevant alterations to hours and working conditions for the employee. This represents a huge potential boosts to employers and therefore the economy as a whole.
GPs and employers will need support in understanding what will ease the transition of helping people back to work and this is where those in the relevant occupational health jobs will play a crucial part.
