Can a Private GP give a Sick Note
This guide busts common myths around private GPs issuing sick notes. It explains how a private or an NHS GP can write a sick note for your employer. What are the requirements to get a sick note? What should a good sick note include? It also explains the common differences between acquiring a sick note from a private GP and an NHS GP, and from where you should get a sick note quickly. The guide answers a few commonly asked questions at the end.
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Yes. A private GP can give a sick note. It’s officially called a Fit Note or Statement of Fitness for Work. The NHS GPs can issue the sick note as well after an assessment.
People go for a private GP for a sick note because NHS appointments have long waiting times. This guide explains all the ifs and buts of acquiring sick notes. So, let’s get into it.
Can a private GP issue a sick note?
Employers accept a sick note if it’s completed with clear dates and advice and is issued by a qualified healthcare professional after an assessment.
So can a private GP issue a sick note? Yes, a private GP can assess you and provide medical evidence of fitness for work.
No employer has any specific requirements regarding the issuer of your sick note. They may challenge any missing key detail within the sick note though.
Am I eligible to get a sick note from a private GP?
Many companies and employers in the UK do not require or ask for a sick note for 7 days or less. You can self-certify that by providing the prescriptions and appointment details in most cases. However, some employers do or can ask for a sick note within the 7-day limit.
What is the difference between a sick note and a fit note?
A sick note is an everyday term in the UK, while the official term is a fit note. Both terms refer to the same document that confirms your illness or condition that is affecting your ability to work.
What a good private GP sick note should include
The bare minimum of a sick note includes the start date and end date, whether you are not fit for work or may be fit for work, and the clinician’s details. The sick note system is designed ot guide employers to the actual reason you are not coming to work so they can make adjustments accordingly.
Some sick notes include “may be fit for work” for scenarios where the patient might be deailing wih stress, anxiety, migraines, back pain, post-viral fatigue, or recovery from a procedure. In such scenarios, you may not need complete off for long. You may need temporary lighter duties or reduced hours for a short period. Sick notes help in such situations.
Should I get a sick note from a private GP or an NHS GP?
If you need a sick note quickly and cannot wait for an NHS appointment because your employer needs medical evidence urgently, you must go to a private GP for a sick note. People often ask, “Can private GP services issue sick notes?” Yes. They can as long as it involves a complete assessment.
Choosing the NHS only makes sense when you have an NHS appointment scheduled soon, and you don’t need it urgently. Another reason people choose the NHS because they don’t want to pay private fees for a sick note.
If that’s a reason for you as well, contact us at Private GP Surgery or visit our clinic in central London and we’ll provide you with a valid sick note after assessing your health condiion in very affordable pricing.
How to get a sick note from a private GP
If you want the smoothest process and don’t want revisions. Do it like this:
Check your employer’s absence policy
- When do they need a fit note?
- Who do you send it to?
- Do they accept digital copies?
The standard UK rule is after 7 days, but companies can have additional procedures. Make sure you understand it at once, so you can follow it in one go.
Gather the basics before your appointment
Have these ready before you visit your GP.
- your job role and the core duties (physical and mental demands)
- your symptoms and how they affect work tasks
- your timeline: when symptoms started and what changed
- any treatment you’ve started or are planning
This helps the GP produce a better note.
Be clear about what you need
Explain to them your condition and tell them that you require a sick note for work absence from this date to this date.
Send it to your employer
ACAS notes employers should be understanding if there is a delay getting a fit note, because appointments are not always available. However, you’ll be able to get a sick note from a private GP within a day or two
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Can a private GP backdate a sick note?
Sometimes, yes, depending on circumstances and the clinician’s judgement, it’s possible.
A sick note can be issued after an asssment and the clinician is expected to complete it properly based on the situation.
Don’t assume backdating will happen. If you were ill last week but only getting seen today, tell the GP when symptoms started, whether you worked any days, and any evidence you have, such as a hospital discharge summary, pharmacy meds, or test results.
You may get one if things align logically.
Can I send a digital sick note to my employer?
Most workplaces accept a scan or photo, especially for short absences, but employers can set their own admin processes, and you will have to do things accordingly.
What Your Employer Can and Cannot Ask For
Employers can ask for a fit note after more than 7 days of sickness. But they usually should not push for extra medical detail beyond what is needed to manage absence and support return. The sick note already gives what they require.
What is the cost of a sick note?
NHS fit notes are typically part of NHS care, so there’s no separate private fee for the note itself. On the other hand Private GPs usually charge you for the consultation and the basic certificate fee.
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Conclusion
A private GP can not only give a sick note but can also give you one way quicker than the NHS waiting time. Book an appointment with your private GP and use the appointment to get a fit note that is focused on how your health affects your ability to work.
