Is a doctors certificate valid from the return to work date or the date the Dr. signs it?

Question

I was off sick for 2 weeks and obtained a certificate from my doctor with a return to work date clearly written on it. The doctor couldn't see me until after I had returned to work so the date he signed the certificate is 3 days after the return to work date. My employer wanted to record me as off sick until the date the doctor signed the certificate rather than the return to work date the doctor had recorded. Which is the correct date for my employer to use for their records? Thanks

Answer 1

A sick note or “Form Med 3” is valid from the date of signing to the
“For+” (eg for 2 weeks)
or
“Or until” ( eg until September 1st)

Your Gp should have been able to see you within 2 week but this is why you are permitted to self certificate for the fist week of illness. And only need a Med 3 form from the second onwards.

It is very unlikely that he will issues you a sick not for a date before he saw you but its worth asking in a letter to him explaining the situation.

Answer 2

I would personally go with the date the Doctor signs it. But that's what seems most logical to me.

Answer 3

You need another not from the doc stating what date you became sick