RCGP Response to the introduction of the Welfare Reform
Bill
4 July
2006
The issue of work and health is a serious one
that deserves widespread debate. GPs recognise that the current
system does not work well - for patients, doctors and employers.
The RCGP therefore supports the emphasis on culture change and
system reform that also encourages employers to be positive about
disability and work. Work and health are inextricably linked and,
where appropriate, we need to do more to help patients to be able
to work as this can improve their health.
GPs take their responsibility in respect of
sick certification seriously but are sometimes placed in a
difficult position. Their overriding duty is to the patient, their
clinical management and the preservation of the doctor patient
relationship.
Any advice and support given to patients must
be done sensitively and we look forward to being involved in any
future discussion about the reform of the Personal Capability
Assessment.
Professor Mayur Lakhani, Chairman of the RCGP,
said: “As a practising GP I know that some people who are disabled
would like to return to work but there are barriers to this and if
such reforms are to be successful they must be accompanied by a
change in the attitude of employers and society more generally.
There is evidence that being out of work long term is bad for your
health. By contrast, being in work is beneficial to the health and
morale. There will also be patients who, for obvious medical
reasons, will not be able to return to work and it is important
that such patients are not stigmatised.
Professor Mayur Lakhani,
Chairman of the Royal College of General
Practitioners
Ends
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