What Should a Sick Note Say in Alberta?

A valid Alberta sick note should include: the physician's name and CPSA registration number, the date of assessment, the recommended period of absence, confirmation the patient was assessed, and the physician's signature. It should NOT include your specific diagnosis, that's private.

Required Elements of an Alberta Sick Note

A legitimate sick note in Alberta must contain:

• Physician's full name
• CPSA registration number
• Clinic name and contact information
• Date of assessment/consultation
• Patient's name
• Statement that the patient was assessed
• Recommended period of absence (start and end dates)
• Physician's signature (electronic signatures are valid)
• Clinic letterhead or official format

What a Sick Note Should NOT Include

Your employer has no right to the following information on a sick note:

• Your specific diagnosis or medical condition
• Details of your treatment plan
• Medications you're taking
• Test results or lab work
• Prognosis or long-term outlook
• Details of your medical history
• Reason for the illness

What Your Employer Can Reasonably Expect

While diagnosis is private, your employer can reasonably expect the note to confirm: that you were assessed by a licensed physician, that you have a medical reason for absence, the dates you should be off work, and whether you have any functional limitations affecting your return.

Common Sick Note Formats

Alberta sick notes come in various formats, from handwritten notes on prescription pads to typed letters on clinic letterhead. All are valid as long as they contain the required elements. MedLetter provides professionally formatted notes on official letterhead with all required information.

MedLetter Sick Notes Include Everything Required

Every MedLetter sick note includes all legally required elements: CPSA-registered physician credentials, assessment date, recommended absence period, official letterhead, digital signature, and a unique verification ID. $49, delivered same day.