Are you unable to work due to a physical or psychological medical condition? Our doctors and nurses will evaluate your situation online and issue your medical work absence certificate quickly, without you having to travel to a clinic when you are unable to do so.
Consult a doctor today for the medical support you need.
A temporary work stoppage is a medical certificate issued by a doctor attesting that a patient is temporarily unable to perform their professional duties due to a health condition. This document is required by most employers and insurance companies to justify an absence and obtain short-term disability benefits.
A work stoppage is justified in situations such as: * **Unsafe working conditions:** When there is an imminent danger to the health or safety of workers, such as faulty equipment, exposure to hazardous substances, or inadequate safety protocols. * **Breach of contract:** If the employer fails to fulfill their contractual obligations, such as not paying wages, not providing agreed-upon benefits, or violating specific terms of employment. * **Discrimination or harassment:** In cases of persistent discrimination based on protected characteristics (race, gender, religion, etc.) or severe sexual harassment. * **Lockout by employer:** When the employer prevents employees from working, often in response to a labor dispute. * **Illegal practices by employer:** If the employer is engaging in illegal activities and forcing employees to participate or remain silent. * **Protest against unfair labor practices:** As a collective action to protest against unfair treatment or practices by the employer that are not necessarily illegal but are deemed unjust by the workers.
Physical conditions: acute illness, severe infection, injury, surgery, physical exhaustion, disabling chronic pain, or post-hospitalization recovery.
Psychological conditions: burnout, severe anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress, or any other mental health condition affecting the ability to work.
Mixed conditions: Many situations combine physical and psychological factors that, together, warrant a period of medically supervised rest and recovery.
Important to know:
A work stoppage is not a document that the patient chooses to obtain. It is the doctor who assesses your condition and determines if your health status medically justifies an absence from work. Our doctors conduct a rigorous evaluation of your situation before issuing any medical certificate, in accordance with the standards of the Collège des médecins du Québec.
Our Virtuel MD doctors will assess your situation and determine if your condition medically warrants a work absence.
Inability to function at work due to total exhaustion — physical, emotional, or mental. Burnout is a recognized medical condition often requiring time off for adequate recovery. Please also see our Mental Health page for comprehensive support.
Severe infection, gastroenteritis, pneumonia, or any other acute condition preventing you from temporarily performing your professional duties.
When anxiety or depression reaches a level that makes it impossible to be present at work, a medical leave of absence allows for the initiation of appropriate treatment without the added pressure of the professional environment.
Musculoskeletal pain, severe migraines, or any other chronic pain preventing regular performance of work duties.
Certain medical conditions are directly aggravated by the work environment or demands. A temporary leave may be necessary to allow for stabilization and recovery.
A doctor cannot issue a sick note if your condition does not medically justify an absence. Our doctors assess each situation with rigor and professionalism, in accordance with the standards of the CMQ.
Find essential information about sick leave in our FAQ. For a personalized diagnosis and appropriate treatment, consult a doctor online today.
No. A medical certificate issued by a physician licensed to practice in Quebec is valid regardless of the mode of consultation. If your employer disputes the validity of a certificate obtained through a virtual consultation, you can confirm that your doctor is a member of the CMQ (Collège des médecins du Québec).
The duration of the work stoppage is determined by the doctor according to your condition and clinical progress. An initial work stoppage may be issued for a few days to a few weeks, with the possibility of renewal if your condition warrants it during a follow-up consultation.
The majority of private insurers accept medical certificates issued by CMQ member physicians, regardless of the consultation method. Some insurers may request specific forms – our physicians can complete these documents during your consultation.
Yes, if your condition medically justifies it. Chronic stress, burnout, and professional exhaustion are recognized medical conditions. Our doctors will assess your overall situation and determine if a work stoppage is medically appropriate.
An online medical consultation with Virtuel MD starts at $139 $. Our doctors assess your condition and issue your medical certificate if medically justified, all from the comfort of your home.
Absolutely. All your medical consultations and data are protected and stored in Canada, in compliance with Bill 25 and PIPEDA.
Consult quickly, in complete confidentiality, from the comfort of your home. Our healthcare professionals are here to support you with attentiveness, expertise and care.
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