Health Info > Telehealth Published on : February 23, 2025

Getting a medical certificate when you're too sick to go out - Tips

Name: Hola Health
Address: Australia
Telephone: +611300014652
Price range: $

Written by the editorial staff writer at Hola. Medically Reviewed by Dr Nelson Lau, MBBS FRACGP, GP & Digital Health Specialist.

When you are feeling under the weather, sometimes rest and a comforting cup of coffee aren’t enough—you need a medical certificate to confirm you are genuinely ill and not just avoiding a tough day at work or school. But, securing one, might seem like a hassle. Don’t worry, though! With the right tools, you can secure the required paperwork without added stress. Here are a few tips to help you navigate the process smoothly.

What is a medical or doctor's certificate?

A doctor’s certificate, also known as a medical certificate or a sick note, is a written document provided by a healthcare professional that validates an individual’s illness or health condition. It usually outlines the diagnosis, the duration of the illness, and any advice for rest or care. This certificate is often required by employers, schools, or other institutions to justify an absence for health-related reasons and may be needed for sick leave or similar reasons.

When is it needed?

A medical certificate is usually needed in the following situations:

Sick leave: When an employee or student needs to take time off due to illness, a medical certificate may be required to confirm the absence and justify the request for leave.
Workplace or school absences: If you are absent from school or work for more than a day due to illness, your employer or educational institution may require a medical certificate to verify the authenticity of your absence.
Extended illness or injury: When an illness or injury hinders you from fulfilling your regular responsibilities for an extended period, a multi-day medical certificate may be required to justify extended leave.
Stress leave for mental health reasons: Mental health reasons and stress are not separate categories of leave; they fall under personal leave (also known as sick leave). Read more on stress leave certificate.
Carer's leave certificates: If you require time off work to care for an immediate family or household member, you’ll need a carer’s certificate. It’s crucial to provide your employer with as much notice as possible regarding the need for carer’s leave.

Also read: What types of multi-day medical certificates can you get online in Australia? In all these situations, the certificate acts as an official confirmation of your health issue and is often necessary to ensure that your absence is legitimate.

What does a medical certificate entail?

A medical certificate is a formal document that generally contains the following information:

Patient identification: Identifies the individual for whom the certificate is issued.
Doctor details: This section includes the attending doctor's name and their AHPRA registration number.
Absence period: This specifies the date during which the patient could not attend work or educational activities.
Date of issuance: The document indicates the date it was issued.
Doctor’s electronic signature: This signature authenticates the certificate and verifies that the doctor produced it.

This certificate's primary function is to provide official documentation related to sick leave, absence from work, or educational commitments.

Who issues an online medical certificate?

An online medical certificate is granted by a licensed healthcare practitioner, usually a general practitioner, following a virtual consultation with the patient. During this consultation, the healthcare professional evaluates the patient’s health status. If deemed appropriate, the practitioner issues a certificate that affirms the individual's inability to attend work or educational commitments due to illness. This certificate possesses legal validity and is commonly provided in an electronic format, frequently accompanied by an electronic signature to ensure its authenticity.

Tips to get a medical certificate online

Here are some tips for obtaining a medical certificate online for work or school:

Be honest: It is imperative to provide accurate and truthful information regarding your symptoms and medical history. Providing misleading or false information may result in complications or an incorrect diagnosis.
Submit relevant medical records: It is advisable to share pertinent past medical records including previous prescriptions, treatments, or diagnoses. This practice aids the online healthcare provider in gaining a more comprehensive understanding of your medical history and current condition.
Articulate your symptoms with precision: It is important to be specific about the symptoms you are experiencing, their severity, and any observable patterns. A detailed account will facilitate a more accurate assessment by the healthcare provider.
Verify the platform's legitimacy: Utilise reputable telemedicine platforms that are properly licensed and regulated by medical authorities. This verification guarantees the authenticity of the certificate and safeguards your personal health information.
Pursue follow-up consultations if required: Should symptoms persist or deteriorate, or if the provider recommends additional tests, it is necessary to pursue further consultations or treatments. This demonstrates a proactive approach to managing your health.
Understand the requirements for your certificate: Certain institutions or employers may stipulate specific requirements for medical certificates. It is advisable to clarify these prerequisites before requesting a certificate to ensure that it meets your needs.

How can Hola help?

Hola Health offers telehealth services that deliver a dependable and efficient solution for patients. The following outlines the support provided by Hola Health:

Online consultations: Patients can receive timely medical advice from licensed healthcare professionals without leaving their homes. This service addresses various health concerns, including respiratory illnesses, flu, and general health inquiries, and provides personalised recommendations from qualified practitioners.
Online scripts: Medications prescribed during consultations are delivered directly to the patient's home or made available for pickup at a nearby pharmacy. This service optimises the process and conserves time for patients.
Medical certificates: Hola Health issues medical certificates on the same day or multiple days for individuals requiring documentation for employment or other needs. This service assists patients in fulfilling workplace requirements and streamlines the documentation process.
Referrals for specialised care: Hola Health provides referrals to specialists or diagnostic services if more complex health issues arise, ensuring that patients receive thorough and personalised care.
After-hours doctor: Hola Health maintains operations during evenings and weekends, guaranteeing that patients can access essential healthcare services and documentation at their convenience.

Getting a medical certificate doesn’t have to be complicated. Just be honest, listen to your doctor’s recommendations, and stay organised with the documentation. With these simple steps, you’ll feel better and manage everything effortlessly—without the stress!

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