Doctors Manitoba rolls out supports as province prepares to eliminate sick notes

Doctors Manitoba has introduced new supports for employers as the provincial government moves to eliminate sick notes, a motion welcomed by both local doctors and businesses.

“Healthy workplace, work environment, where people like to work, you’re not gonna see nearly as much absenteeism,” said Dr. Timothy Ross, a family doctor.

“For employers, sick notes mean extra paperwork without improving how absences are managed. And for our healthcare system, sick notes are taking valuable time that could be better spent,” said Malaya Marcelino, Minister of Labour and Immigration.

Dr. Ross said he also welcomed the upcoming legislation. “It’s about time. I’ve been against many of the components and requirements of sick notes for as long as I’ve been a doctor.”

The new toolkit, released Friday, aims to support employers and human resource professionals in managing absences without sick notes. Officials say the information portal will assist employers as the legislation to end sick notes for minor illnesses is anticipated in spring 2026.

“While the new limits are clear we know that it will be a significant change for many employers. Sick notes have been a long-standing and routine practice for supervisors and HR experts for decades,” said Dr. Nichelle Desilets, president of Doctors Manitoba.

Officials say the elimination of sick notes represents a major cultural shift. “Ultimately an employer continues to have the ability to manage workforce. And in instances where there are abuses of sick-leave policy or other policies, companies still have their tools available to them in case of these abuses,” said Loren Remillard, president and CEO of the Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce.