Fake sick notes

The Medical Defence Union has warned that there are various websites offering advice on how to forge a sick note or that allow a person to buy a replica NHS sick note. It also warns that it has become easier to forge doctors’ signatures with editing software available online.

In a recent article, the Medical Defence Union stated that a GP received a telephone call from a local university asking for clarification of a letter signed by the GP, which said that a student required an extension of a coursework deadline due to their ill-health. It turned out that the GP had not signed the letter. A review of the patient’s notes showed that they had not been seen by the doctor for two years, but the letter appeared to have been written on the practice headed paper and the signature was similar, but not identical, to the GP in question. 

It is important therefore that employers check sick notes for authenticity. If there is any doubt, it is advisable to contact the GP in question and ask him or her to confirm whether or not a sick note has been issued to the employee.

Employees should be aware that engaging in this type of conduct is fraud and amounts to a criminal offence. At the very least, it will almost certainly be considered a gross misconduct disciplinary offence by their employer and is likely to cost them their job!