The provincial government has announced amendments to the Employment Standards Act in an effort to reduce unnecessary administrative work for physicians asked to write sick notes.
Under the new provision, which goes into effect immediately, health care workers will not be required to provide a sick note for the first two short-term absences of five consecutive days or less in a calendar year when they are off work due to illness.
In addition to saving valuable health care provider time, it also reduces out-of-pocket expenses for workers, including doctor fees for writing medical notes, transportation, and child care.
“When you’re sick with the flu, or your child comes down with a cold, the last thing you should have to do is go to your doctor or a medical clinic to get a piece of paper saying you’re sick,” said Minister of Labour Jennifer Whiteside.
This move stems from scientific evidence presented by health care providers that most symptoms of colds and influenza (flu) usually clear up within about five days.
“No one should have to choose between their health and their job,” said Minister of Health Josie Osborne. “These new rules ensure that when people are unwell, they can stay home to recover and help prevent the spread of illness without the added stress of getting a sick note.”
HEU secretary-business manager Lynn Bueckert says this is welcomed news.
“With the chronic shortage of health professionals and long waitlists for medical procedures across British Columbia, we applaud the government for implementing this important policy change,” says Bueckert. “Now, physicians can put their energy into delivering health care services rather than drowning in unnecessary paperwork.
“This amendment also demonstrates respect for health care workers by recognizing they don’t need to come to work sick or spend their recovery time seeking medical notes as proof of illness.”