Can a Doctor Refuse to Give You a Sick Note in Ontario?

Yes, Ontario doctors can refuse sick notes. Learn why refusals happen, what to do if refused, and alternative options for getting documentation.

Yes, Doctors Can Refuse


In Ontario, physicians are not obligated to provide sick notes.

Common Reasons for Refusal


  • Haven't seen you recently and can't assess your condition

  • Don't believe symptoms warrant time off

  • Policy against backdating notes

  • Request seems for convenience rather than medical necessity

  • Too busy (especially during flu season)


What to Do If Refused


1. Ask for their specific reason
2. Address their concerns if possible
3. Seek a second opinion
4. Consider an online service
5. Document the refusal

When Online Services Help


MedLetter can be helpful when your family doctor is unavailable or you've been refused by a walk-in clinic doctor who doesn't know your history.

Important Note


MedLetter physicians conduct genuine medical assessments. If a physician determines your situation doesn't warrant a sick note, they may decline — and you'll receive a full refund.

Ontario Employment Standards: Your Rights

Under Ontario's Employment Standards Act, 2000 (ESA), employees are entitled to 3 unpaid sick days per year (some employers offer paid days). Important provisions:

  • Employers cannot require a doctor's note for ESA-protected sick days as of January 2024 (Working for Workers Act amendments)

  • The Ontario Human Rights Code requires employers to accommodate medical conditions to the point of undue hardship

  • Federally regulated employees in Ontario get 10 paid sick days under the Canada Labour Code

  • Many Ontario employers still request notes as a matter of company policy (distinct from legal requirement)


Statistics: Healthcare Access in Ontario

According to Ontario Health and Statistics Canada (2025-2026):

  • 2.3 million Ontarians lack a regular family doctor or nurse practitioner

  • Average emergency room wait time in Ontario: over 4 hours for non-urgent cases

  • Walk-in clinic wait times in the GTA: 1.5-3 hours on average

  • Ontario has the lowest physician-to-population ratio of any large province


Practical Steps for Ontario Employees

1. Know the ESA - Your employer cannot penalize you for taking your 3 statutory sick days
2. Check your employment contract - Many Ontario employers offer 5-10 paid sick days beyond the ESA minimum
3. Unionized workers - OPSEU, CUPE, and Unifor contracts typically provide 12-18 paid sick days annually
4. Document everything - Keep a record of when you called in and who you spoke to
5. Accommodation requests - If you have a chronic condition, consider requesting formal workplace accommodation under the OHRC

When a Sick Note May Not Be Required

Under Ontario law, a sick note is generally not required for:

  • Your 3 annual ESA sick days (Working for Workers Act, 2024)

  • Family responsibility leave (up to 3 days)

  • Bereavement leave (up to 2 days)

  • Domestic or sexual violence leave


Related: [Sick Note Ontario — Complete City Guide](/sick-note-ontario) | [Ontario Sick Note Cost 2026](/blog/ontario-sick-note-cost-2026)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a sick note online in Ontario?
Yes. CPSO-licensed physicians can assess patients through virtual consultations and issue legally valid sick notes accepted by all Ontario employers.

How much does an online sick note cost in Ontario?
MedLetter charges a flat $49 for a sick note with same-day delivery. This includes the physician assessment and official documentation.

Will my Ontario employer accept an online sick note?
Yes. The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario recognizes virtual care. Online sick notes are legally equivalent to in-person notes.

How long does it take to get a sick note from MedLetter?
Most sick notes are delivered within 2-6 hours of submission. Same-day delivery is standard.