Sick notes no longer required for Nova Scotians missing less than five days of work

HALIFAX, NS – Nova Scotia is implementing new rules around employers requesting sick leave from their employees for missed work time.

From July 1, employers can no longer require sick notes for employees who are absent for less than five days at a time.

Employers can request a certificate for absenteeism if the employee has been absent for less than five working days on two occasions in the past 12 months.

Changes have also been made to allow any medical professional or caregiver to sign apologies for work illness, including nurses, dentists, pharmacists, physiotherapists and social workers.

Health Secretary Michelle Thompson said healthcare professionals should spend their time providing care, not handling paperwork.

“By reducing unnecessary administrative tasks, such as writing sick reports, we free up time for physicians and other healthcare providers to help more Nova Scotians get the health care they need faster.”

For more information or to make complaints about requests for sick notes, contact the Department of Labor, Skills and Immigration at 888-315-0110 or [email protected].