The Doctors see patients at 15-minute appointments. You should use these appointments for review of on-going problems, health checks, medical certificates etc if you have been off work for 1 week or more etc.   

Why does the receptionist ask what's wrong with me?

Cancellations

If you cannot attend an appointment for any reason please inform us as soon as possible in order for us to give the slot to someone else. You can inform us by telephone 01333 426913. 

Home Visits

If you are housebound, unable to attend the surgery and would like to request a home visit, call 01333 426913 before 10.30.

Sickness Certificates

Self certificate - change in guidance

The Government have made changes to the self certificate guidance.  Please see the link below:

https://www.gov.uk/taking-sick-leave

For Covid-19 self isolation lines please see - https://111.nhs.uk/isolation-note/ 

Evidence that you are sick

If you are sick for more than 28 days, your employer can ask you to give them some form of medical evidence to support payment of SSP (statutory sick pay).

It is up to your employer to decide whether you are incapable of work. A medical certificate, now called a 'Statement of Fitness for Work’ (see below) from your doctor is strong evidence that you are sick and would normally be accepted, unless there is evidence to prove otherwise.

You could also provide evidence from someone who is not a medical practitioner, e.g. a dentist. Your employer will decide whether or not this evidence is acceptable. If your employer has any doubts, they may still ask for a medical certificate from your GP. Please call 01333 426913 to request a new or continuation line.

Statement of Fitness for Work - ’Fit Note'

The 'fit note' was introduced on 6 April 2010. With your employer's support, the note will help you return to work sooner by providing more information about the effects of your illness or injury.

For more information see the DirectGov website (where this information was sourced)

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