From the 6^th April 2010 medical statements, or medical certificates as they are also known, are to change format. Currently medical statements, which are used as evidence for sick leave, are issued by doctors who describe the patient’s condition and indicate whether they are fit to work. The new notes, know as ‘fit notes’ allow the doctor to specifically advise that the patient is ‘fit to work’ or ‘is not fit for work’. The ‘fit for work’ part of the statement allows the doctor to suggest means of support the employer can offer to enable to patient to work. Although the employers are not bound to make the changes suggested it is hoped that some may be encouraged to make simple, practical adjustments that will enable the worker to return.  The obligations to pay statutory sick pay and make reasonable adjustments under the Disability Discrimination Act 1995 will not change.