Can an Acupuncturist Provide a Sick Leave Certificate?
Did you know that you don't always need to see a GP to obtain evidence for sick leave?
Many people assume that only a medical doctor can provide a certificate when they're unwell and unable to work. However, under Australia's Fair Work legislation, different forms of evidence may be accepted, including a sickness certificate from a registered health practitioner.
At Coburg Chinese Medicine, I've been providing sickness certificates since opening the clinic in 2012. It's a service that still surprises quite a few patients.
Acupuncture, Cupping and Chinese Herbal Medicine Consultations
If you're experiencing pain, feeling unwell or dealing with a health concern that's affecting your ability to work, you're welcome to book a consultation with me.
I offer acupuncture, cupping and Chinese herbal medicine, and we can discuss which approach, if any, is appropriate for your circumstances. As part of your consultation, I can also assess whether your condition supports issuing a sickness certificate for time away from work.
If you'd like to arrange an appointment, you can book online. If you're unsure whether a consultation would be suitable for your particular circumstances, you're welcome to contact me beforehand.
Book an Acupuncture, Cupping or Chinese Herbal Medicine Consultation
Sickness Certificates, Medical Certificates and Personal Leave
People use several terms for workplace documentation, including medical certificates, sickness certificates, sick leave certificates, personal leave certificates and carer's leave certificates.
Although these terms are often used interchangeably, there are some legal distinctions. For ordinary sick leave, the Fair Work Act generally requires evidence that would satisfy a reasonable person that you were unable to work because of illness or injury.
Sickness Certificates from Your Acupuncturist
I'm Michael Warren, a registered acupuncturist and Chinese medicine practitioner.
Sometimes a patient will mention during a consultation that they've been off work because they're unwell and need a sickness certificate for their employer. They're often surprised when I explain that I may be able to provide one as part of their appointment.
It's something I've offered for many years, and I find that people appreciate knowing they have another option.
How Does It Work?
During your acupuncture, cupping or Chinese herbal medicine consultation, I'll discuss your symptoms, relevant medical history and how your condition is affecting your ability to work.
If, following my clinical assessment, I consider that your condition has made you unfit for work, I can issue a sickness certificate for the period I'm able to substantiate. Certificates are issued according to my professional judgement, and booking an appointment does not guarantee that a certificate will be provided.
I generally email certificates directly to patients as PDFs, making them easy to forward to an employer.
View Available Appointments and Book Online
Will My Employer Accept the Certificate?
Under Australia's Fair Work legislation, employers can request reasonable evidence when you take sick or personal leave.
Some awards or enterprise agreements specify particular documentation requirements, including certificates issued by registered medical practitioners. If you're unsure about your workplace's requirements, it's worth checking beforehand.
You can read more in the Fair Work Ombudsman's guidance on sick leave evidence.
Book a Consultation in Melbourne
Coburg Chinese Medicine is an independent Chinese medicine clinic on Sydney Road in Coburg, welcoming patients from across Melbourne.
If you're dealing with a health concern and would like to discuss whether acupuncture, cupping or Chinese herbal medicine is appropriate for you, I welcome you to make an appointment.
You can also call (03) 9041 6569 if you have questions before booking.