Research and analysis
Exploring perceptions and attitudes towards the extension of fit note certification
This research explores attitudes and perceptions to proposed changes to who can certify fit notes, also called ‘sick notes’ or ‘statements of fitness for work’.
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Details
This research was commissioned to explore the attitudes and perceptions of different healthcare professionals, employers and patients to legislative changes to who can certify fit notes. The changes will extend powers to certify fit notes beyond GPs and hospital doctors to a wider range of healthcare professionals. The research aimed to:
- explore whether the current fit note process meets the needs of healthcare professionals, employers and patients
- explore attitudes and perceptions of healthcare professionals, employers and patients towards the legislative and policy changes
- explore whether extending the certification of fit notes to a wider range of healthcare professionals will help to improve work and health conversations
- identify the main messages necessary to promote future legislative and policy reforms amongst healthcare professionals, employers and patients
- identify any issues that are important to address before legislative and policy reform is implemented
- explore what training, education and skills are potentially needed to ensure legislative and policy reform is implemented successfully
The findings from the research will:
- inform the communication and awareness strategy for the proposed legislative change
- support the delivery and implementation strategy, to ensure the legislative reform is effectively and efficiently implemented across Great Britain
- support the development of proposals in the Health is Everyone’s Business consultation