Guidance

Advising patients about work

Published 8 July 2013

© Crown copyright 2013

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This publication is available at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/advising-patients-about-work-evidence-based-approach-for-gps/advising-patients-about-work--2

1. GPs are in a unique position to provide patients with evidence-based advice about work

For most adults of working age, including people with disabilities and many common health problems, there is strong evidence1 that (return to) work:

  • promotes recovery and aids rehabilitation
  • improves physical and mental health and well-being
  • reduces social exclusion and poverty

2. The beneficial effects of work generally outweigh any risks of work

There is strong evidence[footnote 1] that long periods out of work can cause or contribute to:

  • higher consultation, medication consumption and hospital admission rates
  • 2 to 3 times increased risk of poor general health
  • 2 to 3 times increased risk of mental health problems
  • 20% excess mortality

3. The longer anyone is off work, the lower their chances of getting back to work.[footnote 2]

Sickness certification is a major clinical intervention with potentially serious long-term consequences.[footnote 3]

Two-thirds of sickness absence, long-term incapacity and ill-health retirement is now due to ‘common health problems’ – mild/moderate mental health, musculoskeletal and cardio-respiratory conditions. Much of this should be preventable.[footnote 4]

Common health problems can often be accommodated at work, if necessary with appropriate adjustments and support.[footnote 5]

Planning and supporting return to work, in partnership with patients, are important parts of clinical management.

4. References

5. Resources for patients:

1. Health & Work – a self-help booklet for patients

2. Off work sick and worried about your job? – an HSE booklet for patients

  1. Waddell G, Burton AK. Is work good for your health and well-being? London: TSO, 2006. ↩

  2. The health and work handbook. Faculty of Occupational Medicine, Royal College of General Practitioners, Society of Occupational Medicine, London. ↩

  3. IB204: Medical evidence for statutory sick pay, statutory maternity pay and social security incapacity benefit purposes - a guide for registered medical practitioners ↩

  4. Waddell G, Aylward M. The scientific and conceptual basis of incapacity benefits. London: The Stationery Office, 2005. ↩

  5. Managing sickness absence and return to work: An employers’ and managers’ guide. London:HSE, 2004 ↩

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