Getting a Sick Note for Surgery Recovery in Ontario (2026 Guide)

Getting a Sick Note for Surgery Recovery in Ontario

If you're recovering from surgery in Ontario, you'll likely need medical documentation to justify your time away from work. Here's what you need to know.

How Long Can You Take Off After Surgery?

Recovery time varies significantly by procedure:

| Surgery Type | Typical Recovery | Note Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Minor outpatient | 3-7 days | 1 week |
| Laparoscopic | 1-2 weeks | 2 weeks |
| Major abdominal | 4-6 weeks | 4-6 weeks |
| Joint replacement | 6-12 weeks | 8-12 weeks |
| Cardiac surgery | 8-12 weeks | 10-12 weeks |

Do You Need a Separate Sick Note?

Your surgeon should provide initial documentation, but many patients need additional notes for:

• Extended recovery beyond the surgeon's initial estimate


• Complications that require more time off


• Gradual return-to-work with modified duties


• Employer requests for updated documentation

Your Rights Under Ontario Law

Under the Employment Standards Act (ESA):

• Your job is protected during legitimate medical leave


• You're entitled to 3 unpaid sick days per year (plus any employer-provided paid days)


• For longer absences, you may qualify for EI Sickness Benefits (up to 26 weeks)


• The Working for Workers Act provides additional protections

How MedLetter Can Help

If your surgeon's office is slow to provide follow-up documentation, or you need a note for extended recovery, MedLetter can help. Our CPSO-registered physicians can review your situation and provide same-day documentation.

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

Return to Work Documentation

A return to work note serves a different purpose than a sick note:

• Confirms the employee is medically cleared to resume duties


• May include restrictions or modifications (e.g., no heavy lifting for 2 weeks)


• Protects both the employee and employer from liability


• Required by many occupational health and safety policies

Modified Duties and Graduated Return

Many employees benefit from a graduated return to work:

• Starting with reduced hours (e.g., 4-hour days for the first week)


• Temporary reassignment from physically demanding tasks


• Ergonomic modifications to workstation


• Regular check-ins with supervisor about capacity

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.