After disclosing a medical condition your employer may request a medical report from your GP explaining your conditions. This will be processed under the Medical Reports Act 1998.
You should receive a consent form to sign from your employer before they contact your GP.
When you get this consent form, make sure you read it and give informed consent. Informed consent means you understand everything you’re agreeing to. If you don’t understand or are unsure about any parts, you’re entitled to ask and have it explained in plain, simple english.
Tip: consent forms often contain complex words and statements. so don’t get discouraged if it’s not intuitive. You can check with a trusted individual like a union rep or friend/family.
Keep in mind your organisation may send information to your GP about your job. You have the right to see this information upon request.
Tip: You can send your GP a letter explaining your conditions and the factors that help or hinder your ability to work effectively.
You can choose to see the medical report, if not it’s automatically released in 21 days. You may find it helpful to view what was written in the report.
Make sure the report is accurate, if there is any information you disagree with, think is wrong, or you don’t remember telling your doctor, you can request it be changed. The GP can then consider altering the report or adding your statement.
Tip: If any medical information changes after your medical report, you can request a new GP report. This is not covered by the NHS so will cost (usually £30).