It is not necessary to see a doctor specifically for a certificate in the first week of illness.

Self-certification forms for the first 6 days of absence are available from reception, from your employer or the post office.

If a signed certificate is requested to cover this period, then a private certificate is issued at a charge.

After the first week, sickness certificates may be obtained as part of the consultation with the doctor free of charge.

Remember that if you have been in hospital a certificate to cover any in-patient period must be issued before you are discharged.