Sick certification while self-isolating for Covid 19

Useful links

Get an isolation note

Coronavirus certification letter

Due to unprecedented demand on the service, we are not able to issue sick certificates (eMed3) purely for the purpose of self-isolation if the individual would ordinarily have considered themselves fit for work. Please use the above link to obtain an isolation note via the government website.

If an employer demands certification please download the letter above to forward to them.

GPs are not the gatekeeper of the statutory sick pay system and can only provide certificates for the purpose of illness, not in relation to government advice regarding self-isolation. Employers are responsible for putting in place arrangements for home/remote working where this is possible. Where it is not, the employee may self-certify and return to work following the relevant absence which their employer may authorise as per government advice.

Requests for certification of absence from the workplace relating to Covid-19 may fall into five categories:

1. Symptomatic so isolating for seven days as per government advice:  need to self-certify for the first seven days off work – Do not contact GP
2. Symptomatic and not well enough to work requiring absence for more than 7 calendar days – Can request sick note from GP covering from the first day that the problem was discussed with a GP (patient still needs to self-certify for the first 7 days)
3. Household contact(s) have symptoms so isolating for fourteen days as per government advice  – Use isolation note as above
4. Patients who are in vulnerable category and being advised to shield – You should receive a shielding letter from the government which should be used as evidence. Please contact us via phone/email/Patient Triage if you are worried that you may have been missed.
5. Those in full time education who are symptomatic or requiring self-isolation. There is no NHS requirement to issue certification to schools or colleges to confirm absence. These organisations must work with parents and students to ensure that any absence is appropriately recorded – Do not contact GP

The current Government Guidance for employers and businesses on coronavirus (COVID-19) states;

“By law, medical evidence is not required for the first 7 days of sickness. After 7 days, employers may use their discretion around the need for medical evidence if an employee is staying at home.

We strongly suggest that employers use their discretion around the need for medical evidence for a period of absence where an employee is advised to stay at home either as they are unwell themselves, or live with someone who is, in accordance with the public health advices issued by the government.”