New legislation to allow a wider range of healthcare professionals to certify so-called ‘fit notes’ has been laid before the UK Parliament.
From 1 July 2022, nurses, occupational therapists, pharmacists, and physiotherapists in England, Scotland and Wales will all be able to legally certify statements of fitness for work — something that previously only medical doctors can do.
The government believes that the change will ease the pressure on GP practices and “empower better conversations about work and health between employers and staff” by making it easier to get this advice certified by the most relevant healthcare professional. However, it is not yet clear how these legal powers will be introduced in practice, what the conditions of their use will be or whether all pharmacists — including those not based in GP practices — will be able to certify fit notes from July.
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