9 July 2009 – Publication of DWP working paper 70: Electronic medical certificate (eMed3) proof of concept evaluation
Research published today by the DWP provides an evaluation of the attitudes of participants in a small scale, proof of concept project to test the introduction of computer-generated medical statements as an alternative to the current paper form.
Health, Work and Wellbeing is a Government-led initiative to protect and improve the health and wellbeing of working age people. The introduction of a computer-generated ‘fit note’ to replace the current medical statement will help focus GPs’ advice on what people can do rather than what they cannot. The new statement could also improve the flow of information between GPs, individuals and employers.
The findings from the evaluation will help to inform the implementation and further development of the computer-generated medical statement. The report includes the views of GPs, practice managers, employers and patients regarding electronic sick notes. Key findings include:
- Employers and employees were broadly positive about the idea of eMed3s, and found it a legible alternative to the paper-based note.
- Employers expressed some interest in receiving eMed3s electronically from GPs, and see this as a potentially more efficient way of managing sickness absence.
- Participating GPs found the eMed3 fairly simple and easy to use.
- Practice managers had a key role in the implementation of eMed3 in participating surgeries.
- The general picture from non-participating GPs was of reluctant cooperation if eMed3s were to be rolled out, reflecting their views about the sick note system in general. This finding is in keeping with previous research into GP attitudes on this topic.
Notes to Editors:
- DWP Working Paper no. 70: Electronic medical certificate (eMed3) Proof of Concept evaluation is published on 9 July 2009. The report can be found at http://research.dwp.gov.uk/asd/asd5/wp-index.asp
- GP systems are increasingly computer-based, whilst the sick note (Med3) has remained paper-based. A trial of electronic sickness certification (eMed3) was set up in a small number of GP practices, with the aim of developing and testing the use of electronic sick notes, along with the secure transfer of anonymised data to DWP.
- The evaluation adopted a qualitative methodology. Feedback was obtained from GPs participating in the trial, non-participating GPs, practice managers, employers and employees in receipt of sick notes. The Proof of Concept and the evaluation were both small scale, and the findings should be read in this light.
- The evaluation was carried out by Andrew Irving Associates, and the report’s authors are Dorothy Chang and Andrew Irving.
- A consultation on draft regulations for reforming the medical statement is currently underway, and ends on 19 August 2009. The consultation document can be found at http://www.dwp.gov.uk/docs/reforming-the-medical-statement-consultation-28may2009.pdf
Media Enquiries: 0203 267 5123
Out of hours: 07659 108 883
Website: www.dwp.gov.uk
