Did you know: 1. Hospital doctors in A&E, clinics and wards can issue fit notes for work. These should cover the duration of expected illness and absence from work. 2. You should self-certify for the first 7 days of any illness. You do not need a fit note prior to this. 3. We cannot backdate a new sick note to cover a time when you did not consult with us or another NHS team. For example, if you have taken 10 days off sick with flu, but only contacted us on day 10. We can only issue the fit note from that 10th day. 4. Fit notes can also be issued “may be fit for work” if you are well enough to work but need a phased return, reduced hours or adaptions. 5. You can return before your fit note expires if you feel well enough. There is no requirement for a staff member to be “signed fit” to work by a doctor. 6. In 2022 guidance was updated - nurses, occupational therapists, pharmacists and physiotherapists can legally certify and issue fit notes (according to their training and competency). Previously only GPs or hospital doctors could do this.
Physio, Podiatry & Pain
Physiotherapy & Podiatry
Patients can self-refer to the musculoskeletal (physio) service via the Your Physio website. The website has a number of useful leaflets and videos about joint and muscular conditions and it guides you through the self-referral process.
The NHS podiatry service in York and Selby locality is provided by the Harrogate and District NHS Foundation Trust via White Cross Court and other local community clinics. Patients can now self refer to use this service where appropriate. For more information on what conditions they can treat and to arrange a referral - visit their website here.
If you have been referred to the Pain Clinic, you may experience a wait of 10-12 months. They have developed a useful resource full of support for patients with chronic pain, including: pacing, guidance on limitations of pain medication for chronic pain, exercises, affect on mood and wellbeing. Visit their website here.
