He warned: “With sick note numbers also up on the same period last year, there is a growing need to focus on how the system can better support people to remain in, or return to, employment.”He added: “Delays accessing NHS care, from GP appointments to specialist treatment, risk allowing manageable health problems to become long-term barriers to working.”The Government’s own Keep Britain Working review warned that the existing fit note system was “not working as intended”, with too little practical support to help employees remain in their jobs.On May 21, ministers announced plans to overhaul sickness certification, replacing traditional fit notes in some cases with personalised plans designed to help patients remain in work or return safely.Under the plans, patients could receive support from work and health coaches, clinicians, and other specialists, with employers encouraged to consider changes that might allow staff to continue working.Fit notes are normally required after seven days of sickness absence and can also provide medical evidence for benefit claims.A Government spokesman said: “We know the current system needs fundamental reform, with over 11 million fit notes issued in GP practices last year.“That is why we have four fit note pilots underway with the support of GPs to explore reforms to the system, including referring patients to the WorkWell service, which helps them stay in work with support.“Alongside this, as part of the Keep Britain Working Review, Vanguard businesses are looking at out how employers can play a practical role in preventing absence where possible, and supporting safe, swift returns when it does occur.”