Fit Notes (Sick Notes) from a Private GP
Same-Day Appointments with GMC-registered Online GP
If you are unwell and unable to work, you may need a fit note, sometimes called a sick note, for your employer. AccessGP offers private GP consultations to assess your health and, where clinically appropriate, issue a fit note following a proper medical review.
Fit notes are not issued automatically. They are only provided when medically justified after a consultation with a qualified GP.
What is a fit note?
A fit note is an official medical statement issued by a doctor that explains how a health condition affects your ability to work.
A fit note may state that:
- You are not fit for work for a specific period, or
- You may be fit for work with adjustments, such as reduced hours, amended duties, or workplace support
In the UK, employers usually require a fit note if you have been off work for more than 7 consecutive days, including weekends.
Book your online GP appointment
Book your appointment securely.
Same-day, evening, and weekend consultations available.
Can a private GP issue a fit note?
Yes. A private GP can issue a valid fit note following a medical assessment. Fit notes issued by AccessGP are suitable for most UK employers.
Please note:
- We cannot issue fit notes without a consultation
- Fit notes are issued based on clinical judgement
How to get a fit note with AccessGP
- Book a private GP appointment online
- Speak to a GP by video or telephone
- If clinically appropriate, your fit note is issued after the consultation
- Your fit note is provided digitally, usually on the same day
When a fit note may be appropriate
A fit note may be considered if you are experiencing:
- Acute illness, such as infections or flu-like symptoms
- Worsening of a long-term medical condition
- Mental health difficulties affecting work
- Post-operative recovery
- Significant pain or mobility problems
Each request is assessed individually to ensure it is medically appropriate.
When we cannot issue a fit note
There are situations where a fit note may not be appropriate, including:
- Requests without a medical assessment
- Medico-legal or insurance reports
- Occupational health reports requested by employers
If a fit note is not appropriate, the GP will explain this clearly during your consultation.
FAQs on GP appointments for fit notes
Can you backdate a fit note?
Fit notes are usually issued from the date you are clinically assessed. We do not issue fit notes without a consultation, and we cannot backdate beyond what is clinically appropriate based on the information available.
Will my employer accept a private GP fit note?
Most employers accept fit notes from a registered doctor, including private GPs. AccessGP fit notes include GP details, the assessment date, and clear advice on work capability.
Can I get a fit note for stress, anxiety, or mental health?
A fit note may be appropriate where mental health symptoms are affecting your ability to work. Your GP will assess your symptoms and discuss whether time off work or workplace adjustments are clinically appropriate.
How quickly will I receive the fit note?
If a fit note is clinically appropriate, it is usually issued digitally after your consultation. Same-day or next day-appointments available.
❓See our general AccessGP FAQ’s here.
Book an online GP appointment
Fit notes are only issued following a medical consultation and clinical assessment. Talk to a UK-registered GP about your concerns today.