What is a medical certificate?
A medical certificate is an official document signed by a qualified healthcare professional that says, "Yes, this child is unwell and needs some time to recover." Schools require and appreciate because they help keep tabs on absences and make sure your little one is getting the care they need.What makes an online doctor's certificate valid for schools and universities?
In Australia, online medical certificates from registered practitioners carry the same weight as those from your local GP. Just make sure you're using a reputable telehealth service to ensure that the medical certificate is legitimate.How do I get my online medical certificate for my child in Australia?
- Sign up: Find a trustworthy telehealth platform and create an account. You'll need to provide some basic information about your child.
- Pick your platform: Choose how you want to chat with the doctor - video call, phone, or text.
- Provide the details: During the virtual doctor's appointment, give the doctor the full story on your child's symptoms and medical history - the more details, the better.
- Receive the medical certificate: If the doctor agrees your child needs some time to recover, they'll provide a medical certificate online for you to give to the school
Consulting with the doctor
Provide the doctor with a clear and detailed history of what your child has been experiencing as well as what treatments you have tried so far. The more information you provide, the better their assessment will be as to whether your child also needs to have an in-person assessment if their condition is serious enough to warrant it.When to request a medical certificate online?
- General illnesses: Colds, flu, or any other mild viral infection
- Chronic condition flare-ups: If your child's dealing with an ongoing health issue, telehealth can be effective for helping to manage those flare-ups.
- Mental health days: Many online platforms recognise the importance of mental health and offer certificates for these crucial rest days if required for your child.
- Gastroenteritis: Commonly known as stomach flu, this can cause severe dehydration and discomfort, warranting rest and recovery at home. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhoea, and abdominal pain, which can be particularly distressing for young children.
- Ear infections: Frequent in young children and often painful, requiring time off from school for proper treatment and healing. Symptoms include ear pain, fever, and irritability, and they often follow a cold or upper respiratory infection.
- Asthma attacks: Severe asthma flare-ups might need immediate attention and rest, especially if treatments are required to relieve their breathing difficulties. Symptoms include wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness, which can be alarming for both the child and the parent. If symptoms are severe, they should see a face to face doctor immediately or go to the emergency department.
- Allergic reactions: Serious allergic reactions that require observation or a change in medication can also justify a medical certificate. Reactions can range from mild (such as hives or a rash) to severe (such as anaphylaxis), which requires urgent medical attention.
- Chickenpox: This highly contagious illness requires isolation and rest until all blisters have scabbed over. Symptoms include a red, itchy rash that turns into fluid-filled blisters, along with fever and fatigue
- Hand, foot, and mouth disease: A common viral illness in children that necessitates rest and time away from school to prevent spreading. Symptoms include fever, mouth sores, and a rash on the hands and feet, which can be uncomfortable and require several days of recovery.
Benefits of telehealth medical certificates over traditional sick notes from clinics:
- Convenience: You can receive your certificate at home without needing to take your sick child to the doctor's office.
- Time saver: Skip the waiting room delays at the clinic and spend it resting at home instead.
- Germ-free zone: Keep your child away from other sick patients in the doctor's office.
- 24/7 access: Because children don't schedule their illnesses around business hours.
Top medical advice for parents who have concerns about their child's health:
- Trust your instincts: If something feels off with your child, don't hesitate to seek medical advice.
- Keep the school in the loop: Let them know what's going on with your child. It'll make the transition back to class smoother.
- Doctor's orders: Follow the Doctor's medical advice and review your child again if they are not improving.
- Rest and fluids: Make sure your child is getting plenty of both.
- Keep an eye out: Monitor your child's symptoms and don't be shy about reaching out to the doctor if things change.
- Maintain a healthy routine: Ensure your child has a balanced diet, adequate sleep, and regular physical activity to boost their immune system. A healthy lifestyle can prevent frequent illnesses and help your child recover faster when they do fall ill.
- Stay informed: Keep yourself updated on common childhood illnesses and their symptoms to better understand when medical attention is necessary. Knowledge is power, and being well-informed can help you make better decisions for your child's health.
- Emergency preparedness: Know when to seek emergency care. Symptoms like difficulty breathing, persistent high fever, or severe pain require immediate medical attention. Having a plan in place for emergencies can save valuable time and ensure your child gets the care they need promptly.
Consult an Online Doctor in 15 mins
Speak to an Australian-registered health practitioner
Telehealth appointment available 24 hours a day, all year round
Request scripts, med certs, referrals or get medical advice