Doctors are issuing sick notes too easily, often for "malingerers" or for workers with minor ailments such as a cough or cold, according to a new report.
A survey of 1,000 human resources managers found nine out of 10 complained sick notes were given out too readily.
At least one surgery had sick notes available from reception to avoid the need for doctors to be consulted, it was claimed.
Research among 300 doctors for the same report found more than 80 per cent of GPs did not want to be responsible for writing sick notes.
Many of those questioned admitted they issued notes too easily because of patient pressure.
The research was carried out for Personnel Today and Doctor magazine.
Tuesday October 28, 2003
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