Sick workers who require a medical certificate from their doctor can now take sick time more easily thanks to a new app.
The ‘Sicky’ app makes it simple for crook Sydneysiders who need time off work to get a sick note via the app after an online medical examination by a pharmacist.
It comes as the country experiences a jump in cold and flu cases over the winter season, with flu and pain medication flying off grocery shelves.
The pharmacist-led app may provide certificates to Sydney residents over the phone for a number of diseases such as colds, flu, stomach difficulties, and Covid.
Sicky founder Avinsah Vazirani told 9News, “The last thing we want is sick individuals having to go to work and transmitting what they may have to others.”
Those interested in receiving a certificate should download the app, open it, and apply for either a Sick Leave Certificate or a Carers Leave Certificate.
After that, Sicky connects the user to a virtual call with a pharmacist, who assesses their medical status.
If the pharmacist believes the person is sick, they can send a certificate to the user’s phone right away.
The user can quickly download the certificate to their phone. It can be printed, saved as a document, or attached to an email.
Medical assessments are thorough, according to Mr Vazirani, so individuals attempting to ‘throw a sickie’ are unlikely to acquire a certificate.
Mr Vazirani said that roughly 10% of the cases examined by Sicky are refused.
Under employment law, pharmacists can already provide medical certifications in person, but more critically ill individuals who cannot be assessed will need to see a doctor.