Can I get a medical certificate for gastro-related conditions via Hola Health? 

Yes, if clinically appropriate. Gastroenteritis (gastro) is highly contagious and can leave you feeling too unwell to work or study. Our online doctors or nurse practitioners can assess your symptoms remotely and, where appropriate, provide a valid medical certificate for gastro symptoms without you needing to visit a clinic or spread the infection to others.  

Absence from work or study due to diarrhoea: What you need to know 

Diarrhoea can make it difficult and unsafe to travel to work or study. Following a clinical assessment, an online doctor or nurse practitioner can issue a medical certificate, where appropriate. Australian employers and universities typically accept online medical certificates for this, the same as they would for an in-person visit.  

As a public health precaution, stay home while you have diarrhoea or vomiting. Healthdirect advises staying off work or school until you have not had a loose bowel motion for 24 hours. If you work in health care, residential or aged care, or the food industry, do not return to work until 48 hours after your last episode of vomiting or diarrhoea. 

Getting a sick note for food poisoning via telehealth 

Food poisoning is different from infectious gastroenteritis and often develops suddenly, sometimes within a few hours of consuming contaminated food. An online doctor or a registered practitioner can review your symptom timeline, advise on hydration and recovery, and, where appropriate, issue a medical certificate for leave due to food poisoning symptoms.  

When to seek emergency care 

Seek emergency care if you have signs of severe dehydration, blood in your stool, or if you’re unable to keep fluids down. Telehealth is not suitable for these situations. Call 000 or visit your nearest emergency department.