How it works
- Book an online Doctor appointment and explain your symptoms and how they affect your work.
- The Doctor assesses you by phone or video.
- If clinically appropriate, they issue a certificate covering the period they can reasonably support.
What employers accept
Irish law requires a medical certificate for statutory sick pay. Most employers accept certificates from registered online Doctors. Employers can read more in our guide for employers on medical certificates.
When you need to be seen in person
Some problems need an examination
If your condition needs a physical examination, or you need certification for a long absence or an Illness Benefit claim, the Doctor may ask you to see a GP in person.
Common questions
Are online medical certificates valid in Ireland?
A certificate issued by a Doctor registered with the Irish Medical Council after a genuine consultation is a valid medical certificate, whether the consultation was in person or online.
Will I definitely get a certificate if I book an online Doctor?
No. The Doctor issues a certificate only if they decide it is clinically appropriate after assessing you.
Do I need a medical certificate for statutory sick leave?
Yes. To qualify for statutory sick pay in Ireland you must give your employer a medical certificate. Check Citizens Information for the current number of paid days and pay rate.
Can my employer refuse an online medical certificate?
Employers set their own sick leave policies. Most accept certificates from registered online Doctors, but some ask for in-person assessments in certain cases. Check your contract or staff handbook.
Can an online Doctor backdate a certificate?
Doctors can usually only certify what they can reasonably assess. They are generally cautious about certifying days before the consultation.
How much does an online medical certificate cost?
The certificate is part of the Doctor consultation. A typical online appointment costs around €50; ViscaCare members pay €39 during the launch offer.
Where these figures come from
- Citizens Information — sick leave and sick pay
- Irish Medical Council — guide to professional conduct and ethics
- gov.ie — Illness Benefit
Charges and thresholds change. We check these figures regularly, but always confirm the current rate with the official source before you rely on it. This page explains entitlements, costs and process — it is not medical advice.
Too unwell to go in?
ViscaCare members can book an online Doctor through Health Hero. If the Doctor decides a certificate is clinically appropriate, they can issue one after the consultation.
Related guides
Online doctor in Ireland
What it costs (typically around €50), what can be prescribed, and how booking works.
Read moreOnline prescriptions in Ireland
What can be prescribed remotely, repeat medication, and what you pay at the pharmacy.
Read moreWhat healthcare costs in Ireland
GP fees, the €100 ED charge, prescription caps and consultant fees.
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