The simple answer is yes.
• They can be given to patients to offer to employers or the Department of Social Security
• Their acceptance is discretionary, though little difficulty has been reported since they were introduced
• They should only be used for conditions for which the physiotherapist is taking clinical responsibility (e.g. back pain, other joint problems or the after effects of a stroke)
• A fixed date of expiry must be given – the certificate cannot be open ended
• The diagnosis must be clearly stated
[February 2009]