The effect on attendance rates for sickness absence assessment of a revised employee information sheet

An increasingly high standard of ethical practice is expected of all doctors and in particular those not providing treatment services.

This case-control study investigated the effect on non-attendance rates for first sickness absence appointments of a new employee information sheet sent to staff from the two largest departments, education and social services, of a large UK local authority.

An information sheet detailing the ethical standards applying to a local authority occupational health service was developed and sent to all employees referred by their managers as part of the sickness absence management procedures, along with details of their appointment.

A reduction of approximately 1/3 in the rate of non-attendance was noted in the intervention group, which was statistically significant for social services referrals.

This approach may improve the efficiency and effectiveness of occupational health services, as well as helping to achieve the informed consent of employees undergoing occupational health assessment.