Electronic 'fit notes'
Tuesday, 18 Mar 2008 11:19
Electronic 'fit notes' are designed to improve the number of people in work
Electronic 'fit notes' have been advised to replace the current system of paper-based sick notes to improve the number of people in work.
The proposal is one of a number made by the national director for work and health, Dame Carol Black, following her review of how to reduce lost productivity resulting from ill health.
Her report estimates that ill health costs the UK economy £100 billion each year and has numerous effects on families.
About 2.64 million people are currently receiving incapacity benefits.
The fit notes would outline what people can do, rather than what they cannot do.
Other proposals unveiled by Dame Carol include a new Fit for Work service to be piloted for patients in early stages of sickness and for occupational health to be brought into the mainstream of healthcare provision.
"We cannot go on as we are," said Dame Carol.
"There are difficult and challenging messages for everyone, whether they are politicians, healthcare professionals, employers, unions or individuals. All have a shared responsibility for the health of Britain's working age population."
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