The RCPod view on fit notes
The Royal College of Podiatry (RCPod) has been working multi-professionally with the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) on the work to alter legislation to allow an increased provision of Fit Notes.
Whilst working collaboratively with all parties, the RCPod has always promoted that podiatrists, whether working in independent practice, primary care, community health services or the acute sector, have the requisite skills to engage in return-to-work conversations with patients. Therefore, relieving the pressure on GPs.
Disappointingly, the DWP has decided that podiatrists, along with dieticians and paramedics, will not be included in the change in legislation allowing them to issue Fit Notes. The RCPod will continue to engage positively with the DWP and the DHSC and continue to push for further changes.
Podiatrists will continue to be able to issue an advisory AHP Health and Work Report. A template and guidance are available to members here.
June 2022