When Do You Need a GP Medical Certificate for Work or School?
A GP medical certificate (also known as a doctor’s certificate or sick note) is an official document issued by a General Practitioner (GP) to confirm that a person is unfit for work, school, or other regular activities due to illness or injury. It serves as reliable proof of a medical condition and ensures that employees or students are treated fairly when they need time to recover. Understanding when and why you need a GP medical certificate can help you avoid workplace disputes, meet legal requirements, and maintain a good relationship with your employer or school. What Is a GP Medical Certificate? A GP medical certificate is a written statement from a qualified doctor confirming that you are medically unfit to attend work, school, or another obligation for a specific period. It typically includes: Your name and date of examination The date you are deemed unfit to attend work or school The estimated recovery period The doctor’s name, signature, and clinic details Some certificates ma...