Doctor's Note Templates
Professional doctor's note templates for work, school, and medical clearance. Download free templates and learn what every medical excuse note should include.
What is a Doctor's Note?
A doctor's note (also called a medical excuse, sick note, or medical certificate) is an official document from a healthcare provider that verifies a patient's visit and may excuse them from work, school, or other obligations due to a medical condition.
When You Need One
- Missing work due to illness
- School absences for students
- Returning after surgery or illness
- Sports or activity clearance
Who Can Write One
- Physicians (MD, DO)
- Nurse Practitioners (NP)
- Physician Assistants (PA)
- Telehealth providers
Essential Elements of a Doctor's Note
Every valid doctor's note should include these key components to be accepted by employers and schools.
| Element | Description | Required |
|---|---|---|
| Practice Information | Official letterhead with practice name, address, phone, and fax | |
| Date of Document | When the note was written | |
| Patient Identification | Full name and date of birth | |
| Date of Visit/Examination | When the patient was actually seen | |
| Dates of Incapacity | Specific dates the patient was/will be unable to work or attend school | |
| Return Date | When the patient can resume normal activities | |
| Restrictions (if any) | Any limitations on activities, lifting, etc. | Optional |
| Provider Signature | Handwritten or electronic signature | |
| Provider Credentials | MD, DO, NP, PA with license number |
Doctor's Note Templates
Use these professional templates as a guide for different situations.
Work Excuse Note
For employees who need to justify absence from work due to illness or medical appointment.
Should Include:
Example Template
[Medical Practice Letterhead] Date: January 15, 2026 To Whom It May Concern: This letter confirms that [Patient Name] was seen at our clinic on January 15, 2026, for evaluation and treatment of a medical condition. The patient is excused from work from January 14, 2026, through January 17, 2026. The patient may return to work on January 18, 2026, with no restrictions. If you have any questions, please contact our office at [Phone Number]. Sincerely, [Provider Name], MD [Medical License Number] [Practice Name] [Contact Information]
School Absence Note
For students who missed school due to illness or medical appointments.
Should Include:
Example Template
[Medical Practice Letterhead]
Date: January 15, 2026
Re: Medical Excuse for [Student Name]
DOB: [Date of Birth]
To Whom It May Concern:
[Student Name] was evaluated at our office on January 15, 2026, for a medical condition.
The student was unable to attend school on the following date(s): January 13-15, 2026.
[Student Name] is cleared to return to school on January 16, 2026.
Physical Education Restrictions: Excused from PE for 1 week (until January 22, 2026).
Please contact our office with any questions.
[Provider Name], MD
[Practice Name]
[Phone Number]Medical Clearance Letter
Confirms a patient is medically cleared to return to work, school, or physical activity.
Should Include:
Example Template
[Medical Practice Letterhead] Date: January 15, 2026 MEDICAL CLEARANCE CERTIFICATE Patient: [Patient Name] DOB: [Date of Birth] Date of Examination: January 15, 2026 This certifies that the above-named patient has been examined and is medically cleared to: ☑ Return to work/school ☑ Resume full physical activity ☐ Return with restrictions (see below) Restrictions/Limitations: None This clearance is valid for: 12 months from date of examination [Provider Name], MD License #: [Number] [Practice Name]
Jury Duty Medical Excuse
Documents medical condition that prevents jury service.
Should Include:
Example Template
[Medical Practice Letterhead] Date: January 15, 2026 Re: Medical Excuse from Jury Duty Patient: [Patient Name] To the Court Administrator: I am writing to request that my patient, [Patient Name], be excused from jury duty scheduled for [Date]. [Patient Name] is currently under my medical care for a condition that would make jury service difficult. The patient experiences [general symptoms - e.g., "difficulty sitting for extended periods" or "requires frequent medical attention"]. This condition is expected to continue for approximately [duration]. I respectfully request that the patient be excused from jury service at this time. [Provider Name], MD [Medical License Number] [Practice Phone Number]
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these pitfalls when writing or requesting doctor's notes.
Including too much medical detail
Problem: Violates patient privacy (HIPAA). Employers don't need diagnosis details.
Instead: State only that patient was seen and dates of absence, not specific conditions.
Vague return date
Problem: Creates confusion and may not be accepted.
Instead: Provide specific return date or clear criteria for return.
Missing provider credentials
Problem: Note may be questioned or rejected without verification.
Instead: Always include full name, degree, and license number.
Backdating notes
Problem: Potentially fraudulent and unethical.
Instead: Date the note when it was actually written; specify dates patient was seen.
Legal Considerations
Important legal and compliance factors to keep in mind.
HIPAA Compliance
Doctor's notes should contain minimum necessary information. Avoid disclosing specific diagnoses unless the patient explicitly authorizes it or it's legally required.
ADA Considerations
For workplace accommodations, separate documentation may be needed. The accommodation request process has its own requirements.
FMLA Documentation
Family and Medical Leave Act has specific certification forms (WH-380-E for employee, WH-380-F for family member) that must be used.
State-Specific Requirements
Some states have specific requirements for medical notes, especially for workers compensation or disability claims.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What should a doctor's note include?
A doctor's note should include: practice letterhead, date of the document, patient name, date the patient was examined, dates of absence or incapacity, expected return date, any work/activity restrictions, and the provider's signature with credentials and license number.
Can an employer require a doctor's note?
Yes, employers can generally require a doctor's note for absences, especially for extended sick leave or when it's part of company policy. However, they cannot require disclosure of specific medical conditions under HIPAA. The note should only confirm the visit and dates of absence.
How do I get a doctor's note?
You can get a doctor's note by visiting your primary care physician, urgent care, or telehealth provider. Request the note during your visit or call the office afterward. Some practices charge a fee for documentation. Many providers can now generate notes electronically using AI medical scribes.
Is a doctor's note confidential?
Yes, the full medical record is confidential under HIPAA. However, the doctor's note you provide to an employer or school contains only limited information. Employers can see that you visited a doctor and the dates of absence, but they should not receive diagnostic information unless you authorize it.
Can a doctor's note be verified?
Yes, employers and schools can verify that a doctor's note is authentic by contacting the medical practice. They can confirm the note was issued by that office but cannot obtain additional medical information without patient authorization.