You do not need a medical certificate for the first week you are off work.
For this period use a self certificate which you can download and print .

If your employer does not accept this then the following guidance is available.

REQUESTS BY EMPLOYERS FOR SICKNESS CERTIFICATION (Click to view information)

Our current charge for a private medical certificate is £14.50

After the first seven days you will require a medical certificate. In order for this to be issued you must make an appointment to see the doctor. The only exception to this is if you have been seen at hospital and we have a letter to confirm this.

We no longer issue certificates to declare fitness to return to work following maternity leave- see the following guidance for more information.

MATERNITY LEAVE REQUESTS FOR CERTIFICATES TO CONFIRM FITNESS
TO RETURN TO WORk (Click to view information)