A new report released today by Doctors Manitoba has revealed overwhelming public support for eliminating or limiting the requirement for sick notes to verify short-term absences from work. The research, based on a public survey, found that a staggering 96% of Manitobans are in favour of the change, including 87% who support complete elimination.

Even among business owners and managers, the support is remarkably high, with 95% backing the move, highlighting a broad consensus across various sectors.

“Manitoba has the biggest shortage of family doctors in Canada, so it’s vital we all work together to free up as much of their time as possible for patient care,” stated Dr. Randy Guzman, President of Doctors Manitoba. “By eliminating sick notes in Manitoba, we can free up over 300,000 visits for patients, which is the equivalent of adding over 50 doctors to our province overnight.”

The report’s findings underscore the inefficiency and burden associated with requiring doctor’s notes for minor illnesses. Notably, 71% of workers surveyed admitted they would go to work sick rather than seek a sick note, potentially spreading illness within workplaces.

“Going to work sick can be a risk to workplace productivity, because it can expose other workers to viruses and increase sick time overall,” Dr. Guzman explained.

The push to eliminate sick notes is not new. Last year, the Joint Task Force to Reduce Administrative Burden for Physicians recommended their elimination to the Minister of Health. The Canadian Medical Association has also called for a nationwide elimination of sick notes.

While many provinces have taken steps to limit or eliminate sick notes, Manitoba and Alberta remain outliers. Doctors Manitoba has been actively researching the issue and engaging with employers, unions, and other stakeholders to build a consensus on how to transition away from the current system.

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