'Fit Notes' to replace sick notes

The Government has launched a consultation on the proposed introduction of a new medical 'fit note' to replace the current sick note to enable more employees to stay in work. 

The new fit note will give medical practitioners three options regarding the health of the employee: 

• fit to work
• not fit to work
• fit for some work .

The new last option ('fit for some work') requires the doctor to comment on the condition and whether the employee could benefit from: 

• phased returned to work,
• altered hours
• amended duties
• workplace adaptations 

Managing sickness absence can be a challenge for employers - estimated to cost the British economy over £100 billion every year for 172 million lost working days. 

It is proposed that fit notes will take effect from April 2010.