Validity of certificates

7.Notwithstanding the issue of unclear diagnoses, medical certificates should always be carefully examined to ensure they are valid.  If there is any doubt about whether a certificate is genuine, it should be referred to the doctor concerned for clarification.

8.In particular, photocopies of certificates, unsigned documents and certificates with open ended periods of incapacity cannot be accepted.

9.Occasionally it may be necessary to bring matters to the attention of the Fraud Officer in the first instance.  Specifically, certificates containing alterations which do not appear to have been made by the certifying doctor should be referred to your Fraud area.  Your office will have specific instructions related to such procedures.

10.Where certificates have been backdated, it may be necessary to refer them on to the Medical Registration Board in your State.  The practice of backdating certificates is not considered to be an appropriate medical practice by the Board and is specifically discouraged.  Discuss any such cases with your Claims Services Manager before referring them onto the Board.  Compensation ought not to be paid on the basis of a backdated certificate.