Are MedLetter documents legitimate?

Yes. Every letter is reviewed and signed by a physician registered with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA). Our documents include the physician's CPSA registration number, official letterhead, and signature.

How quickly will I receive my letter?

Most letters are delivered within 2-4 hours during business hours. Some complex requests may take up to 24 hours.

Is this service available outside Alberta?

No. This service is exclusively for Alberta residents. Our physicians are licensed with the CPSA and can only provide medical documents to patients within their jurisdiction.

What is an Emotional Support Animal (ESA) letter?

An ESA letter is an official document from a licensed physician stating that you have a mental health condition that benefits from the companionship of an emotional support animal. This letter can be used for housing accommodation requests.

How much does a sick note cost?

A sick note from MedLetter costs $49 CAD. This is a one-time flat fee with no hidden costs.

Calgary Sick Note Laws - What Your Employer Can and Can't Ask

Your Calgary employer asked for a sick note. Do you have to provide one? What information can they demand? Here's what Alberta law actually says.

## What Can Your Calgary Employer Legally Ask? You called in sick. Now your employer wants a doctor's note. Is that legal? What information do they get to see? Here's what Calgary workers need to know about sick note requirements under Alberta law. ### Can My Calgary Employer Require a Sick Note? **Short answer: Yes, in most cases.** Under Alberta's Employment Standards Code, employers can request "reasonable verification" of an illness-related absence. This means: - They CAN require a sick note as part of their workplace policy - They CAN require one for absences of 3+ days - They CAN include sick note requirements in your employment contract - They CANNOT require you to disclose your specific diagnosis - They CANNOT require a note for every single-day absence (unless it's in written policy) ### What Information Must a Sick Note Include? A valid sick note for a Calgary employer typically includes: 1. Physician's name and credentials (CPSA registration number) 2. Date of examination/assessment 3. Statement that you were medically unable to work 4. Dates of absence (from and to) 5. Physician's signature ### What Your Employer CANNOT Demand Under Alberta's Health Information Act (HIA) and privacy legislation: - Your specific diagnosis or condition - Details about your symptoms - Your medical history - Information about medications - Details about your treatment plan Your sick note should say you were "medically unable to attend work" - not what was wrong with you. That's your private health information. ### What About Short Absences (1-2 Days)? Many Calgary employers have policies requiring notes even for single-day absences. While this is legal if it's in their written policy, it's worth noting: - The Alberta Federation of Labour has advocated against mandatory sick notes for short absences - Many healthcare professionals consider it a waste of medical resources - Some Calgary employers are moving away from this requirement However, if your employer's policy requires it, you need to comply or risk disciplinary action. ### What If I Don't Have a Family Doctor in Calgary? Many Calgary residents lack a family physician. This makes getting a sick note challenging through traditional channels. Your options: 1. **Walk-in clinic** - 2-4 hour wait, but free 2. **Online service like MedLetter** - $49, delivered in 1-4 hours, no appointment 3. **Telehealth** - Free virtual appointment, but availability varies ### Can I Be Fired for Calling in Sick in Calgary? Alberta law protects employees from termination solely for legitimate illness-related absences. However: - You must follow your employer's notification procedures - Excessive absenteeism (even if legitimate) can be grounds for termination - You should provide documentation when requested - Job-protected leave under the Employment Standards Code has specific rules ### How MedLetter Helps Calgary Workers MedLetter provides official sick notes from CPSA-registered Alberta physicians. Your note includes everything your Calgary employer needs - physician credentials, dates, and signature - without disclosing your private health information. Get your sick note in 1-4 hours without leaving home: [Get Started](/get-started/sick_note)