When you need a medical certificate, what are your options?

When it works

When you have an established relationship with your doctor, need a thorough examination, or have a chronic condition that benefits from continuity of care.

When it does not

When booking takes days, when you cannot leave home because you are unwell, or when you need a certificate the same day for a short absence.

When it works

When you need to be seen in person and your regular GP is not available. Useful for minor injuries, acute illnesses, and after-hours visits.

When it does not

When you do not feel well enough to leave home, or when wait times stretch into hours during peak demand.

When it works

When your condition is short-duration and self-limiting, you do not need a physical examination, and you want to avoid travel or waiting rooms. Common examples: cold, flu, gastroenteritis, migraine.

When it does not

When your condition needs an in-person examination, diagnostic tests, or is severe or worsening. Telehealth providers will decline and refund in those cases.

When it works

Many employers accept a statutory declaration for absences of one or two days when a medical certificate is not strictly required. Check your employment agreement or HR policy.

When it does not

When the absence is longer than two consecutive days, or when your enterprise agreement specifically requires medical evidence. Not all employers accept statutory declarations.

When it works

Some workplaces let employees self-certify for short absences without a medical certificate. Common in workplaces with paid personal leave entitlements where evidence is requested only for longer absences or patterns of absence.

When it does not

When your enterprise agreement, HR policy, or specific manager requires medical evidence. When the absence is longer than the self-certification window.