Please do not ring the surgery in relation to Sick Cert/Social Welfare Certificate for Sick Leave. We would ask that you review the information below and if you have any further queries please email cert@northgatesurgery.ie

Medical Certificates for Sick Leave

Your employer can require you to provide a medical certificate (from your GP) when you are on sick leave. For example, you may have to provide a medical certificate if you are out sick for more than 2 or 3 consecutive days. The medical certificate should state the date you are likely to return to work. If you are likely to be out sick for a longer period, your employer may require you provide medical certificates.

Please note that you must undertake a GP consultation to receive a Sick Cert or Illness Benefit Certificate.

Children Returning to School/Childcare

If your child is returning to school/childcare after an absence, they do not require a GP certificate. Please liaise with your school/childcare facility for their specific return to school protocol, as they may require you to complete documentation. 

Illness Benefit

You may get Illness Benefit from the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection (DEASP) if you cannot work because you are sick or ill. You must be aged under 66, covered by the appropriate class of social insurance (PRSI) and satisfy the PRSI conditions.

You must get a medical certificate called a ‘Certificate of Incapacity for Work’ from your GP – which can now be submitted electronically by the GP through a secure system. You must send a paper Illness Benefit claim form (IB1) by freepost to the Department of Employment Affairs & Social Protection to open your claim.

Your GP completes the medical certificate. Your GP can sometimes provide one medical certificate to cover the duration of your illness, sometimes you will need to return for further review. 

The Citizens Information website contains a wealth of information on Sick Leave and Sick Pay and Illness Benefit.

The nationwide EmployAbility Service provides an employment support service for people with a health condition, injury, illness or disability and a recruitment advice service for the business community.