Bit of a work/sicknote dilemma, any opinions greatly appreciated.

Hi all

I have been off work for eight weeks due to a flare, then an awful reaction to MTX and just generally a bad time. Am now slowly reducing a high predisolone dose weekly till I see rheumy again Oct 5th when he is going to try me on sulfasalazine.Last month I told work I would probably be back after this four week sicknote, which would be next tuesday, and I saw my GP yesterday and he's given me another four weeks off. I know I wouldn't be able to do my job without causing myself pain and distress, but work are expecting me next week and I'm not answering my phone at the minute because I daren't tell them I have another four weeks! Also this note runs out the day before I see rheumy and I can't imagine going back to work the day I start new meds! So more than likely yet another note after this one. My dilemma is that I don't want to lose my job because I'm hoping that sooner rather than later once meds are ok I will feel able to go back to work, so do I struggle and go back now or do I take the extra time? I know it's one of those questions that only I can answer, but has anyone else felt presssured into going back to work early?

Thanks

Liz

[Beth58]

Hi Liz

It's only fair you contact your employer and tell them: 'The doctor did not agree with your planned return and gave you another sick note for 4wks, plus, he's recommended you stay off until you start the new meds'. Apologise to them for your error and hope they are understanding.

That is unless you feel well enough to return on a reduced hours basis which you can sort out with HR.

Good luck hope the new meds kick in soon and you get back to work.

Beth xx

[Hidden in reply to Beth58]

Hi Beth

Thanks for the advice, I know I'm being a bit naughty for avoiding the issue at work, I guess I know what I should do, but it's not always what we'd like to do is it! Sometimes biting the bullet can be hard when you just feel like being an old mardy bum!

Thanks for being there

Liz x

[Hidden]

Last year I had taken time off work and returned to work too early, by lunchtime I felt dreadful, so went back on the sick. This got up my managers back up more than if I had stayed away. I agree with Beth give them a call explaining, it's better that way, you could also arrange to see her before your eventual return to have a discussion on phased return to work. Your doctor can also arrange that you do this, as the new certficate's makes room for this if you re-look at the one you have. You will then be entitled on both counts to receive your full pay.

Hope you feel better soon.

[Hidden in reply to Hidden]

Hi Georje

Almost a mind reading skill there. I had thought about going back in on Tuesday, but I know I wouldn't manage even a short shift as my job is very physical, and I knew I would only end up back on the sick with the added problem of telling my doc what I'd done! I work for a very large company who don't take prisoners when it comes to getting their moneys worth out of the staff! Ever felt like you just want to hide under the duvet for a bit longer.............

Thanks for replying

Liz x

[Hidden in reply to Hidden]

Hi Beth and Georje

Have just done the deed and phoned work, what a relief and what was I panicking about! All sorted, and everything fine. I guess things just build up in my head and once I've thought of the worst case scenario, that's what I expect is going to happen!

Thanks for the support, much appreciated.

Regards

Liz x

[Beth58 in reply to Hidden]

ha ha

I do exactly the same, keep putting off something I know I must do and once I get my head around it I can't understand why I made such a fuss and it's always a massive weight lifted. xx

[Hidden in reply to Beth58]

I make a lot of fuss about the size of my bum but I never seem to get that weight lifted!!!!!!! Ha Ha

Feeling much better, if not lighter.......

Thanks again x