Manitoba physicians push to eliminate short-term sick notes

WINNIPEG — A group representing physicians in Manitoba is urging the government to eliminate sick notes for short-term work absences. They argue this change would ease pressure on a healthcare system facing a shortage of family doctors. Doctors Manitoba reports that physicians issue about 600,000 sick notes annually. They believe removing this requirement could free up over 300,000 patient visits each year. Currently, employers decide when sick notes are needed, with requirements varying from one to seven days. The group is advocating for legislation to standardize these requirements, similar to other provinces.