What is an absence from work certificate?

An Absence from Work certificate is an official document issued by a pharmacist stating that someone is unable to attend work due to illness, injury or needing to care for an immediate family or household member.
Our Pharmacist at Sea Lake Pharmacy can provide this certificate. The  Pharmacist will consult with you and can issue an absence from work certificate for up to two day's work for:

• Personal leave - if you are unable to work due to injury or personal illness
• Carer’s leave - if you are required to look after someone who is unwell

‎ How can I obtain an absence from work certificate?

Our Pharmacists can issue an absence from work or medical certificate during opening hours at Sea Lake pharmacy. Appointments are not necessary.

FAQ

Are there any conditions my Pharmacist cannot assess?
Your Pharmacist must be professionally qualified to assess your illness or injury. Pharmacists cannot issue a certificate for: 

• Pregnancy-related concerns (unless minor ailments within their scope of practice) 
• Compassionate or bereavement leave 
  
• Extension to an existing certificate 
  
• Events which occurred in the past 
  
• Any purpose other than evidence of an individual’s need for personal or carer’s leave 

If your Pharmacist is unable to issue a certificate, they will refer you to a telehealth provider or local GP.

Can Absence from Work Certificate be backdated?

An absence from work certificate is a legal document and cannot be backdated. To receive a Certificate you need to have a consultation in the store with an experienced pharmacist.
The date of absence from work must not commence on a date other than the date of the consultation.

Can an absence from work certificate request be rejected?

Pharmacists are not obligated to issue an absence from work certificate and may reject a request. Requests may be rejected if the pharmacist feels an absence from work certificate is not warranted, or that the nature of the illness requires medical attention.
There may be other circumstances where a pharmacist may refuse to issue an Absence of Work certificate.

Is this service bulk-billed?

No. Consultations for work absence certificates start from just $24.99*.

What do I need to show my Pharmacist?

Please ensure an absence from work certificate is accepted by your employer and bring any items that relate to your request, such as prescriptions or previous certificates. 
It’s important to note that an absence from work certificate is not a medical certificate and can only be used as evidence to support your absence from work due to illness, injury or caring for others who are unwell or injured.

Can you get an Absence from Work certificate from the chemist?

Yes, absence from work certificates can be obtained at a chemist. However, you need to have a consultation with an experienced pharmacist before a certificate is issued.
It’s not necessary to make an appointment, but you are welcome to book an appointment ahead of time.

How do I prepare for an Absence from Work consultation?

To prepare for an absence from work consultation, make sure your employer will accept a Certificate issued by a pharmacist. You should also bring any relevant documentation including prescriptions or previous certificates.
You will need to provide a complete and accurate description of why you are requesting an Absence from Work certificate, including your medical history.
If you need carer’s leave the person you are caring for should come to the consultation with you.