You're ill and can't go to work? Your employer may ask you for a medical certificate (sick note). Here's how to go about it.
When do you need a certificate?
It depends on your employment contract, the staff regulations or the applicable collective labour agreement. Many employers ask for one from the third day of absence, but some require it from the first day. Check your documents or ask your HR department.
How do you get one?
The certificate is issued by a doctor after a consultation. Book an appointment quickly with your family doctor, at the practice or, if your condition allows, by teleconsultation. Choose the "certificate" or "consultation" reason for visit, depending on what the practice offers.
What the certificate contains
It states the period and the degree of incapacity for work. Your employer does not need to know your diagnosis: the certificate does not mention it.
Receiving it without travelling
If the practice shares it via the Synamed documents area, you'll find it in your account and can forward it directly to your employer.
Good to know
A medical certificate is issued after an assessment by the doctor: in principle it covers the period following the consultation, and a backdated certificate is not automatic.