Canadian Medical Association Calls for End to Sick Notes for Minor Illnesses

Doctors argue that sick notes for short-term illnesses burden the healthcare system and suggest legislative changes to alleviate this issue.

The Canadian Medical Association (CMA) reports that around one-third of Canadian workers were required to provide a sick note for short-term illnesses in the past year.
Doctors argue that requiring sick notes for minor illnesses, such as colds or migraines, creates unnecessary healthcare interactions and administrative burdens on physicians.
With over 6.5 million Canadians lacking access to a family doctor, sick notes often lead to increased visits to emergency rooms and walk-in clinics.
A survey indicates that nearly three-quarters of Canadians support legislation to restrict sick note requests for short-term absences.
Some provinces, like Nova Scotia, have already enacted laws to limit sick note requirements, suggesting alternatives such as signed declarations or flexible leave policies.