Fake sick notes on the increase

The number of fake sick notes requested each year is estimated to be approximately nine million, acc...

The number of fake sick notes requested each year is estimated to be approximately nine million, according to recent research from Norwich Union Healthcare (NUH). The survey found that doctors think almost a quarter of the 577 requests they receive each year for sick notes are questionable, with at least a fifth being invalid.

The report, Health of the Nation Index, found that back pain was the most common cause for sick note requests, with depression following a close second. Work place stress, other stress-related problems and flu were also among the top five claims.

The study found that almost three million workers across the country admitted they'd consider asking their GP for a fake sick note, with twice as many men as women saying they would cheat the system.

Over a fifth of the GP panel taking part in the study said up to 20% of their patients were unable to work due to health reasons. However, many believed that the number of people on sick leave could be reduced if it wasn't for delays in treatment and if organisations arranged to have their employees back to work in a different capacity.

Four out of 10 GPs questioned believed that more than a third of their patients who were unable to work could actually work a few hours a day or in a slightly different role. However they said that employers were not encouraging them back to work.

Dr Ann Robinson, one of the GPs who took part in the research, said: "Employers need to be more flexible with their workforce and hospital services need to provide fast track diagnostic and treatment centres."