The Government has announced that it plans to overhaul what it describes as the “broken fit note system”.

The announcement coincides with publication of the results of a Call for Evidence that sought views on how the existing fit note system could be improved to support people to “start, stay and succeed in work”, finding that whilst patients and healthcare professionals generally viewed the current system positively, employers expressed more concern.

For example, employers called for clearer guidance on workplace adjustments, realistic return-to-work timelines, and greater involvement of occupational health services. More generally, they also worried about the ease with which fit notes could be obtained without a face-to-face consultation, as well as their lack of detail and “actionable advice” such as timelines for adjustments, clearer definitions, and expectations.

Responding to the Call for Evidence, the Government has stated that the existing system is not working as effectively as it could be, and has committed to work with patients, healthcare staff and employers to bring about reforms that focus less on certifying incapacity and more on supporting continued participation in the workforce. As part of this work, it plans to launch a series of pilots which will – in its words – “look at the best way to end this tick-box exercise which does not offer any support or guidance and replace it with personalised ‘stay in work’ and ‘return to work’ plans for workers who fall ill”.

According to the Government, the pilots will for up to a year and help inform legislation that will be brought forward in due course to reform the existing system.

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