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NEWS: Adrian O’Dowd Pilot scheme will ask GPs to give more detail in sickness certificates BMJ 2008; 336: 468-a [Full text]

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an antipodean observation

chris harnden   (3 March 2008)

an antipodean observation 3 March 2008
chris harnden, gp principle blenheim new zealand Send response to journal: Re: an antipodean observation	It is interesting to note planned changes in sick note certification. When I worked in the UK, I always resented being asked to be a 'policeman' for the welfare state. The system in NZ is different and probably helps with rehabilitation back to work. On sick benefit notification we are required to state in time frame time when ready for training, to be able to work part time & any therapeutic maeasures (ie counselling, surgery) which would speed up a benficiaries return to the workforce. My patients usually value this as they can become involved in planning their return to work in a more positive light, than have a fear of being forced to return to work when not ready. It also helps me in thinking more about steps I cna take to help them with this than just signing a sick note. I feel the UK has something to learn from our experience Competing interests: None declared