Nova Scotia Buzz
Doctors and employees have long said sick notes are a burden on both of them, but yet, many employers in Nova Scotia still request them. A newly tabled bill in Nova Scotia’s Legislature could free up an estimated 50,000 hours for physicians.
The Patient Access to Care Act includes new measures to reduce administrative burdens on healthcare providers, giving them more time to see patients.
“Paperwork shouldn’t stand in the way of helping Nova Scotians get the care they need.” said Michelle Thompson, Minister of Health and Wellness. “When someone is sick, the last thing they should be thinking about is that they need to get a doctor’s note. It’s also the last thing a doctor needs to write, when they could be seeing a patient with more urgent care needs.”
Provincially regulated employers will only be able to request a sick note if an employee is absent for more than five days or has already had two absences of five days or less in the previous 12-month period.
