How a Sick Note Protects You from Wrongful Dismissal in BC
A sick note isn't just workplace bureaucracy — it's legal documentation that can protect your job and support a wrongful dismissal claim if needed.
Why Documentation Matters
Without a sick note, it's your word against your employer's. With one:
- You have proof your absence was medically justified
- Your employer cannot claim you were "no-call, no-show"
- You establish a paper trail of legitimate illness
- You demonstrate good faith compliance with workplace policies
BC Wrongful Dismissal and Sick Leave
Under BC law, termination is potentially wrongful if:
- You were fired because you took legitimate sick leave
- Your employer failed to accommodate your medical condition
- The termination was discriminatory (based on disability/illness)
- You were fired during job-protected leave
What to Do If Terminated After Sick Leave
1. Don't sign anything immediately (especially a release)
2. Gather documentation — sick notes, emails, performance reviews
3. Note the timeline — how soon after your sick leave were you terminated?
4. Consult an employment lawyer — many offer free initial consultations
5. File a complaint — BC Human Rights Tribunal or Employment Standards Branch
Damages You May Be Entitled To
- Notice pay or pay in lieu of notice
- Severance (for longer-term employees)
- Human rights damages (if discrimination is proven)
- Aggravated/punitive damages in egregious cases
How MedLetter Helps
MedLetter provides timestamped, physician-signed documentation that serves as strong evidence in wrongful dismissal cases. Every note includes the physician's CPSBC registration number and date of assessment.
What Employers Need to Know
Canadian employment law balances employer interests with employee privacy:
- Employers can request confirmation of illness but not specific diagnoses
- The note should state: dates of absence, that the employee was/is unfit for duties, and expected return date
- Employers cannot contact the physician directly without employee consent
- Requiring a note for every single-day absence may constitute harassment in some jurisdictions
Cost Considerations for Employers
- Walk-in clinic notes cost employees $20-50 and require 2-4 hours away from work
- Virtual sick notes reduce time away from work to minutes
- Some employers reimburse sick note costs as a best practice
- The cost of replacing a sick employee for a day far exceeds the cost of documentation
Related: [Sick Note Vancouver](/online-sick-note-vancouver) | [Sick Note Surrey](/online-sick-note-surrey) | [Online Sick Note BC](/online-sick-note-bc)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a sick note online in British Columbia?
Yes. CPSBC-licensed physicians can assess patients through virtual consultations and issue legally valid sick notes accepted by all BC employers.
How much does an online sick note cost in BC?
MedLetter charges a flat $49 for a sick note with same-day delivery. This is often faster and more affordable than visiting a walk-in clinic.
Will my BC employer accept an online sick note?
Yes. The College of Physicians and Surgeons of BC recognizes virtual care. Online sick notes are legally equivalent to in-person notes.
How many paid sick days do I get in BC?
BC employees are entitled to 5 paid sick days per year after 90 days of employment, plus 3 additional unpaid sick days.