Health
Are fit notes fit for the 21st century?
Key Points
Salisbury correctly identifies problems with the existing fit note system such as the possibility of abuse by patients as well as clear compassionate circumstances when a fit note might be helpful such as unsupportive working environments or life stressors such as caring responsibilities.1 But defence of the current structure of the fit note seems unjustified when just 6% of fit notes use the “may be fit for work” option.2 Furthermore, patients with longer or several periods of sickness...
Salisbury correctly identifies problems with the existing fit note system such as the possibility of abuse by patients as well as clear compassionate circumstances when a fit note might be helpful such as unsupportive working environments or life stressors such as caring responsibilities.1 But defence of the current structure of the fit note seems unjustified when just 6% of fit notes use the “may be fit for work” option.2 Furthermore, patients with longer or several periods of sickness certification are associated with a higher mortality risk than those without certification.345The BBC investigation found that some general practitioners (GPs) never decline fit notes for mental health problems, but we must ask why.6 Firstly, recovery and fitness to work for physical illnesses such as pneumonia and broken bones are understood, whereas the recovery trajectories for mental health conditions such as depression are poorly defined.Secondly, identifying symptoms of an illness does not equate...