Doctor's certificate

A doctor's certificate is a document in which a medical practitioner records a professional opinion based on an assessment and available information. In a workplace context, it may support illness-related absence or caring responsibilities. It is not automatically a guarantee of paid leave, and the doctor decides what statements and dates can be supported.

What is it used for at work?

Fair Work guidance recognises medical certificates and statutory declarations as examples of evidence for personal or carer's leave. The evidence must satisfy a reasonable person that the employee was entitled to the leave. An employer may request evidence for a short absence as well as a longer one.

Tell the employer as soon as practicable about the absence and expected duration. Ask what evidence is required and how to submit it. The certificate supports the medical circumstances; employment status, available leave and applicable rules determine payment.

For the Australian guidance behind this explanation, see Fair Work Ombudsman: Notice and medical certificates - Fair Work Ombudsman.

What should I tell the doctor?

Explain symptoms, the effect on your ability to work or care, relevant dates and the nature of your duties. Safety-sensitive work may require particular consideration. Do not ask the doctor to change facts or use a date that does not reflect the assessment.

A clinician may need more information or recommend examination. They may also decide that a requested certificate is not appropriate. Paying for a consultation does not oblige a doctor to issue a document or use wording requested by an employer.

Can it be checked for authenticity?

Doccio's supplied certificate process includes a verification ID. Employers can use the service's verification page to check authenticity through the intended process. Authenticity checking is separate from deciding leave entitlements and should not imply unrestricted access to clinical records.

See Doccio's medical certificate service for current arrangements. Ask about unusual forms before booking, because an ordinary work certificate may not satisfy an insurer, university or government agency's separate requirements.

Where to go next

Read medical certificates to understand the relevant service. A doctor decides whether a consultation, examination, referral or another pathway is appropriate for your situation.