Which specialist performs sick leave certificate?

A sick leave certificate records a clinician’s assessment of how illness or injury affects your ability to work. General practice reviews your symptoms, examination findings, treatment, and the demands of your job. The doctor may describe a need for rest, a review date, or temporary work adjustments when those are medically suitable. The certificate is based on clinical assessment, not simply on a request for time away.

Book with general practice as soon as your illness affects attendance or safe performance at work. Explain when symptoms began, what duties you cannot manage, and whether your employer has supplied a specific form. Bring identification, relevant medical reports, and a medicine list. Tell your workplace promptly that you are unwell and ask which document format or submission route it requires.

A certificate appointment should not delay treatment for a serious problem. Seek emergency help for severe breathing difficulty, chest pressure, sudden one-sided weakness, fainting, uncontrolled bleeding, or a rapidly worsening condition. If symptoms persist beyond the period documented, contact general practice for reassessment rather than extending leave yourself or using someone else’s certificate.

Ask what work activities are unsafe, whether modified duties could help, when a review is needed, and what symptoms should trigger urgent care. Confirm how the certificate will be provided, whether a follow-up assessment is needed, and what information can be shared with your employer while keeping clinical details private.