IB migration Fit Note after 7 years?

I am in the process of being 'migrated' and have received ESA50 to complete. I've mustered support from various professionals who are onboard and aware they may be asked for more information by ATOS/DWP.


My intention when sending the form is to 'blind them with science' and write extensive extra pages, copying a lot of the information they had on my last renewal form (which has not changed), attach letters from my MS Nurse, the Continence Nurse and physiotherapist, and list all other hospital clinics I've seen in the past 2 years.

My GP has said that she will provide information to them when they ask, and I accept that it might not be politic for her to write me a letter, but I'm just wondering if it would be a good idea to now ask her for a 'Fit Note' to send in with my form. I've been in receipt of IB since 2004 and have been exempt from sending sick notes for years.

I've searched the forum to see if anyone has asked this before, and couldn't find anything. I'd be grateful for your thoughts please.

Hi madderbat

I'm not entirely sure what you mean by blinding them with science, but don't forget that your primary aim is to convince them that you satisfy the WCA. To do this you need to be clear and comprehensive about your disability.

It's not necessary to send a 'fit' note unless you are asked for one, so a detailed letter from your GP would be much better.

You could explain to your GP that the DWP often make adverse decisions without contacting the claimant's GP, and ask your GP to help avoid this scenario. Also see CD's post here regarding medical evidence.

Good luck

Derek

Thank you for the advice Derek, I put the comment 'blinding with science' in inverted commas as what I meant was supplying as much clear evidence as possible.

I am seeing my gp before I need to submit the form and will let her know that they may not contact her, and an adverse decision could be made to the detriment of my condition.

I did read CD's post before submitting my question, and am glad of the link for reference.
I take on board the fact that it is not my responsibility to provide medical opinions, and just hope that I won't need to go to appeal.

Thank you again for your advice.

Hello Madderbat. I just went through migration. I remember that a letter that came with the ESA50 clearly stated that you should not send a fit note.

Also, if you are willing to pay your GP's Practice, they generally are happy to provide you with a medical report. If you phone the receptionist they should tell you how much your GP charges.

Also, I kept my answers short and concise, I did not do extra pages, at all, I was specific and honest about the problems that I suffer. It worked for me. Sometimes less is more.

I am also being migrated.

Be aware that adding and sealing to form [ albeit medical evidence and 'science'input0 continuation pages will not likely be acknowledged by Atos. They will ignore you ----push hard though with customer-relations.