The Social Security (Medical Evidence) and Statutory Sick Pay (Medical Evidence) (Amendment) Regulations 2010 are intended to come into force on 06 April 2010. The old sixk note as we once new it will be replaced with a "Statement of fitness for work".

The main amendments are that under the new system the statement will list common changes which could be made to an employee's work environment or job role to help facilitate a return to work.

There will no longer be a "fit for work option" instead it will read "you may be fit for work taking account of the following advice." This acknowledges that it is not the doctor but the employer, in consulation with the employee, who is best placed to make the decision as to whether or not they can accommodate any changes to facilitate a return to work. It was felt that Doctors do not have the appropriate knowledge about individuals' roles and the risks involved to be able to assess this.

There are four options for the Doctor to tick:A phased return to work

Amended duties

Altered hours

Workplace adaptions

There will also be a new comments box which will allow the Doctor to state if he or she believes that another option is more appropriate.

The maximum duration a medical statement can be issued for will be reduced from six to three months during the first six months of a health condition.

If an employer is not able to facilitate a change or an adjustment, a revised statement is not necessary; the exisiting statement is evidence that an individual has a health condition preventing him/her from carrying out the current role.

Specific guidance for individuals, employers and healthcare professionals will be available shortly.