Former GP Dr. Brian Fisher challenges Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s claims of a ‘sick note culture’ and the need to shift responsibility for issuing fit notes from GPs to specialist work and health professionals. Fisher argues that Sunak’s initiative implies a harsher regime that forces people back to work unnecessarily, despite a lack of evidence that GPs keep people off work unnecessarily. He also highlights the comprehensive care provided by GPs, balancing illness, personality, and work demands in their fit note decisions.
Fisher raises concerns about the potential impact of privatizing this process, citing the case of Stephen Carré, who died by suicide after being denied a ‘fit to work’ appeal by private company ATOS. He argues that separating off this part of caring for the sick fractures the all-round care that GPs provide.
Instead of targeting the sick, Fisher calls for a focus on properly funding the NHS, transforming social care, and addressing poverty and deprivation as more effective ways to improve health outcomes. He emphasizes that thoughtful shared decision-making based on an understanding of the person’s background and preferences makes for better, safer medical care.
