How do I get a sickness certificate?

Doctors do not have to issue a NHS sickness certificate for an illness lasting seven days or less. Your employer may, however, require you to complete a self-certification form SC2 which is available from your employer not your doctor. Form SC1 required by unemployed or self-employed patients is available at reception.

If a sickness certificate is requested by your employer for an illness lasting less than seven days a private certificate may be issued for which a fee is payable. For an illness lasting longer than seven days ask for a NHS sickness certificate. You may need to see the doctor first.