List of medical professionals able to issue fit notes expanded

Implementation date: 1 July 2022

The Social Security (Medical Evidence) and Statutory Sick Pay (Medical Evidence) (Amendment) (No.2) Regulations 2022 (SI 2022/630) provide that nurses, occupational therapists, pharmacists and physiotherapists in England, Wales and Scotland may issue a statement of fitness for work (known as a "fit note") following an assessment of a patient's fitness for work. Prior to the introduction of these Regulations, only doctors were able to issue fit notes. The Social Security (Medical Evidence) and Statutory Sick Pay (Medical Evidence) (Amendment) (No.2) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2022 (SR 2022/182) make equivalent provision for Northern Ireland.