How to Get a Sick Note from Your GP

Feeling unwell and need time off work? Understanding how to get a sick note from your GP can save you time and stress when you're already under the weather. Whether you're dealing with a short-term illness or a longer-term health condition, knowing the process makes everything easier.

What Is a Sick Note and When Do You Need One?

A sick note, officially called a fit note or statement of fitness for work, is a document from your GP that confirms you're too unwell to work. In the UK, you don't need a sick note for the first seven days of illness. Your employer can ask you to confirm your absence using self-certification, which simply means telling them you're unwell.

You'll need a fit note from your GP if you're off work for more than seven consecutive days, including weekends and bank holidays. Some employers may have different policies, so it's worth checking your contract.

Can You Get a Sick Note Online?

Yes, you absolutely can get a sick note from an online GP. Online GP services have made the process much more convenient, especially when you're feeling too unwell to travel to a surgery or wait for an appointment.

Through a private online GP consultation, you can discuss your symptoms via video call and receive a fit note digitally if the doctor determines you're unfit for work. The entire process typically takes less than an hour, and your sick note can be emailed directly to you or your employer.

How to Request a Sick Note from Your GP

For NHS GP appointments, contact your surgery and explain that you need a fit note. You may need an appointment, though some practices issue them without one if you've been seen recently for the same condition. NHS sick notes are free of charge.

For online GP services, book a private consultation through a regulated provider. During your video or phone consultation, explain your symptoms and why you're unable to work. If appropriate, the GP will issue your fit note immediately after the consultation.

The advantage of online appointments is speed and convenience. Rather than waiting days for an NHS appointment when you're already unwell, an online consultation can often be arranged within hours.

What Information Goes on a Fit Note?

Your sick note will include several key details. It confirms whether you're not fit for work at all, or whether you may be fit for work with certain adjustments. The GP will specify the reason you're unfit to work, though this is often kept quite general to protect your privacy.

The note includes the date of assessment and how long the GP recommends you stay off work. It might also include suggestions for your employer, such as phased return to work, altered hours, or amended duties.

How Long Does a Sick Note Last?

GPs can issue sick notes for varying lengths depending on your condition. For acute illnesses like severe flu or a chest infection, you might receive a note for one to two weeks. For ongoing conditions or recovery from surgery, notes can cover several weeks or months.

If you need more time off after your sick note expires, you'll need to get a new one. You should contact your GP before your current note runs out to avoid gaps in your documentation.

Do You Need to See a GP in Person for a Sick Note?

Not necessarily. Whilst traditional GP surgeries may prefer to see you in person, particularly for initial assessments, many conditions can be assessed remotely. Online GPs are fully qualified to issue legitimate fit notes following a thorough telephone or video consultation.

This is particularly helpful if you have mobility issues, live in a remote area, or are too unwell to travel. It's also useful if you need a sick note outside standard surgery hours.

Sick Notes for Mental Health Conditions

Your GP can absolutely issue a sick note for mental health reasons. Conditions like anxiety, depression, stress, or burnout are valid medical reasons for time off work. The fit note will usually list "stress" or "anxiety" rather than specific diagnoses to maintain your privacy.

Online GPs are trained to assess mental health conditions and can provide sick notes alongside referrals or treatment recommendations. Many people find discussing mental health easier during a private online consultation from the comfort of home.

What If Your Employer Won't Accept Your Sick Note?

A properly issued fit note from a registered GP, whether obtained online or in person, is a legal document. Your employer must accept it. If you're using a private online GP service, ensure they're registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC) in England or the appropriate regulator in Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland.

If your employer questions the validity of an online sick note, they can verify the GP's registration with the General Medical Council (GMC). All legitimate online GP services use fully qualified, registered doctors.

Costs and Considerations

NHS sick notes are free, but you may face long waits for appointments. Private online GP sick notes typically cost between £25 and £50, including the consultation. Whilst this involves a fee, the speed and convenience often make it worthwhile, especially if missing work could cost you more in the long run.

Some employers offer private medical insurance that covers online GP consultations, so it's worth checking your benefits package.

Getting a Sick Note When You Really Need It

Whether you choose an NHS appointment or an online GP consultation, getting a sick note shouldn't add to your stress when you're unwell. Understanding the process means you can focus on recovery rather than worrying about paperwork.

Online GP services have transformed access to fit notes, offering same-day appointments and instant digital delivery. For many people, this convenience makes a real difference to their healthcare experience and recovery.

Remember, your health comes first. If you're too unwell to work, getting proper medical documentation protects both you and your employer. Don't hesitate to seek the help you need, whether that's through your local surgery or a trusted online GP service.

Need a sick note quickly? The Online GP offers same-day consultations with experienced, GMC-registered doctors who can assess your condition and provide fit notes digitally within hours. Book your confidential consultation today.