TUC: GPs do not know enough to issue fit to work notes
04-12-2008
The Trades Union Congress (TUC) has claimed that some unwell employees could be going back to work before they are ready because GPs do not know enough about workplaces to judge the situation.
There are also concerns that if people do return to employment but with fewer duties this may not be benefiting them in any way.
Hugh Robertson, head of health and safety for the TUC, said it may not be appropriate for a lawyer "who has just recovered from a stress related illness to be told that he can go back so long as he doesn't have any legal duties, but he can sort the post out and keep the desks clean".
Mr Robertson also highlighted that if electronic fit to work notes are emailed to employers then this could be a breach of patient doctor confidentiality.
According to the Department of Work and Pensions, the Black Review estimated that the British economy loses around £100 billion each year because of working days lost due to ill health.
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