Can You Be Refused a Medical Certificate? Here’s What You Should Know
Most think that going to the doctor automatically qualifies them to get a medical certificate. The truth is, there are good reasons why a doctor might decide against issuing one. Understanding the possible reasons can help manage expectations and prevent conflict.
Professional Judgment Takes Precedence
Physicians have no obligation to provide a certificate if they find it is unjustified. For example, if an individual is perfectly fine with no signs of disease, a doctor may refuse to provide a document to the contrary. This serves to uphold the integrity of the medical profession and only allows honest documents to be distributed.
Why You Could Be Denied
- Lack of Medical Basis: If you have no symptoms or are unable to give a consistent history, the doctor may have no medical grounds.
- Backdating Requests: Requesting a doctor to issue a certificate for a past date is unethical and generally refused.
- Unclear Purpose: If the intention behind the certificate isn’t obvious or is suspect, it may be denied.
- Teleconsult Limitations: Certain conditions need to be examined in person, and a physician might refuse to give a certificate unless there is a physical examination.
What You Can Do
If you are refused, you can ask another licensed doctor for a second opinion. But be honest and do not “doctor shop” just to receive the result you desire.
The Doctor’s Responsibility
All registered physicians in the Philippines have to behave ethically and within the law when issuing medical certificates Philippines. Misuse of the system may attract disciplinary action or loss of their license.
