Sick Notes, Fit to Fly & Masks

SICK NOTE REQUESTS

Due to these unprecedented circumstances, we have been receiving lots of requests for sick notes for people who are self-isolating for coronavirus,  the practice will not provide a medical certificate for these patients but you can download the sick note below to self-certifcate.  

Med3 Sick Note

For more information please see: Employer & Employee Advice re Sick Notes

Wear A Mask, Help Reduce the Spread

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jZtEX2-n2Hc 

Face Mask Exemption Statement

Government guidance regarding exemptions suggests there is no requirement for an individual to produce evidence of exemption, such as a letter from a GP and therefore should be sufficient for an individual to self-declare this. In these circumstances, it is not a medical reason that requires a written letter from the GP for those who do or do not, fall under the list of exemptions.

Guidance on specific circumstances

• gov.uk/guidance/coronavirus-covid-19-safer-travel-guidance-for-passengers#exemptions-face-coverings

• https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/face-coverings-when-to-wear-one-and-how-to-make-your-own/face-coverings-when-to-wear-one-and-how-to-make-your-own

GPs will continue to ensure that the healthcare needs of their patients continue to be met in accordance with NHS and Government guidance.

We hope that this guidance provides some reassurance for patients on this issue.

Re Face Mask Exemption

The government guidance suggests there is no requirement for evidence for exemption. It should be sufficient for someone to declare that they are eligible for an exemption direct with the person questioning them.

In line with government guidelines Practices are not required to provide letters of support for those who fall under the list of exemptions, or to those who do not fall under the list of exemptions.

You do not need to wear a face covering if you have a legitimate reason not to. This includes:

• young children under the age of 11
• not being able to put on, wear or remove a face covering because of a physical or mental illness or impairment, or disability
• if putting on, wearing or removing a face covering will cause you severe distress
• if you are travelling with or providing assistance to someone who relies on lip reading to communicate
• to avoid harm or injury, or the risk of harm or injury, to yourself or others
• to avoid injury, or to escape a risk of harm, and you do not have a face covering with you
• to eat or drink, but only if you need to
• to take medication
• if a police officer or other official requests you remove your face covering

There are also scenarios when you are permitted to remove a face covering when asked:

• If asked to do so by shop staff for the purpose of age identification
• If speaking with people who rely on lip reading, facial expressions and clear sound. Some may ask you, either verbally or in writing, to remove a covering to help with communication

Also See: Public Health & Transport

We do not provide 'fit to fly' letters for Covid-19

On 4th July UK travel advice changed with exemptions for travelling to certain countries and territories that no longer pose a high risk for British travellers.

 The government website provides guidance for those planning to travel abroad.

http://www.gov.uk/guidance/travel-advice-novel-coronavirus

 As your GP practice, it is not our policy to issue COVID-19 certificates for international travel purposes.