There is no requirement for a GP to provide a sick note for periods of incapacity lasting 7 days or less or the first 7 days of longer spells. This is our usual position.

A Med 3 (WHITE) is a sick note, which can be issued to a patient when seen the same day (or the following day). It can be given to return on a specific date – referred to as “closed” (but not more than 2 weeks from the date of signing) or for an “open” period e.g. 3 weeks.

A Med 5 (PINK) can be issued under the same terms but is usually required when the period of cover starts prior to be seeing seen or when the doctor has not seen the patient in person (but has documentary proof that they are unwell, e.g. a discharge letter from hospital).