How to get a medical certificate: Step by Step Guide
If you need a medical certificate, the process is simple. Here’s how to get one quickly.
A medical certificate is any clinical documentation — such as a Doctor’s Note, Fit Note, or private report, that provides more perspective into your health status for work, study, travel, insurance, visa purposes or more. In the UK, you have several options depending on the reason you need a certificate.
What Is a Medical Certificate?
A medical certificate refers to any clinical documentation or letter issued by a qualified healthcare professional that verifies various aspects of your health — beyond just sickness. This can include:
Fit Notes (Statement of Fitness for Work): Confirms whether you’re fit or unfit for work, with optional recommendations for adjustments.
Specialist Referral Letters: Formal requests to see consultants or therapists for conditions like dermatology, orthopaedics, or mental health support.
Insurance Claim Letters: Evidence of diagnosis and treatment dates needed by insurers for claims (e.g., dental work, physiotherapy).
Travel and Visa Medicals: Health assessments and certificates confirming vaccination status or fitness to travel internationally.
Fitness-to-Drive or Sports Participation Certificates: Statements confirming you’re safe to drive or compete in sports after illness or surgery.
School and University Absence Notes: Letters for educational institutions to explain absences or request exam concessions.
Whether you need documentation for work, study, sports, travel, or insurance, the steps are broadly similar.
Examples of Real‑World Scenarios
Office Worker Needs Phased Return: After minor surgery, Sara’s GP Fit Note recommends four-hour days for two weeks before full duties.
Student Requires Exam Concession: Raj provides a specialist’s letter confirming his migraine diagnosis to get extra time in exams.
Amateur Footballer: Mark’s club requests an unfit-to-play letter, after his ankle sprain.
Specialty Referral via Insurance: Anna obtains a report from a GP outlining her medical concerns, for which she needs a referral.
Our GMC‑registered GPs at Medway GP are ready to evaluate your requirements and issue professional support letters where clinically indicated.
Get the documentation you need, so you can focus on what matters most to you.
