Celebrating National Physicians’ Day as BC physician groups share updated sick note for employers

Alongside our partners at Doctors of BC, Consultant Specialists of BC, and the BC College of Family Physicians, we released a standard employer letter explaining BC’s updated sick note rules for work. The letter aims to cut unnecessary paperwork for family physicians and keep appointment time available for patients who need care.

Under updated regulations to the Employment Standards Act, employers can only ask for a sick note for short-term illness in limited circumstances. Physician groups have long called for this change to reduce visits that don’t improve care.

The impacts of people with minor illnesses booking appointments only to get a note include:

• An increase in wait times for patients who need medical care
• The potential for more infectious virus spread in clinics
• More administrative work for physicians and staff

With fewer sick-note visits for short-term illness, people can rest at home—and you can focus on patients who need in-person care. Anyone with severe, worsening, or concerning symptoms should still seek medical attention.

Employers should use the letter to update workplace policies and ensure sick note requests align with the new legislation. You can also provide this letter to patients who are not yet aware of the updated standards.

Download the joint sick note letter for employers here.