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New guidance on the fit note is today being published by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) following extensive consultation with business groups and medical representatives.
On April 6, 2010, fit notes will be introduced, replacing the traditional sick note, allowing doctors to provide people with advice to employers on what types of work their patient would be able to do if duties could be amended or working hours reduced temporarily.
It is hoped the changes would cut the cost of sick leave for employers and benefit the UK economy by up to £240 million over ten years; preventing long-term sickness absence and ensuring employers do not lose their investment in the skills and expertise of their workers.
Lord McKenzie, Minister for the Department for Work and Pensions said, "The fit note will reduce the costs employers often have to bear when people are off sick for a long time. We know work is good for people's health. With the right support in place, employers and doctors can work with employees to help them get back to work sooner."
Commenting on the development of the guidance, Dr Bill Gunnyeon, Chief Medical Adviser at DWP said: "From the outset, the development of the fit note has been a collaborative effort. It demonstrates what can be achieved when Government, healthcare professionals, employers and other key stakeholders work closely together towards a common goal. We need to continue this good work once the fit note is in place to ensure it delivers the benefits it should for individuals, employers and GPs."
Introduction of the fit note is based on medical research that shoes work is in general good for mental and physical health and can actually help people’s health recover in a number of conditions.
The Department for Work and Pensions developed the fit note following consultation with the British Medical Association, Royal College of General Practitioners, Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development, CBI, ACAS, Federation of Small Businesses, Association of British Insurers, British Retail Consortium and the manufacturers' organisation, EEF.
Dame Carol Black, National Director for Health and Work said, "Work plays a significant role in determining a person's health. The fit note is a hugely important development which means that GPs will be encouraged to think about their patient's ability to work and provide more helpful information to patients to discuss with their employer. This is why the fit note is a win-win for both employees and employers."
If you are still unsure about how the new fit note regime will affect your working practices and procedures, please speak to employment department partner, Michael Pitt, on 0161 785 3506.
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