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A Doctor’s Note for Light Duty is an official medical document issued by a licensed healthcare provider. It verifies that an individual can return to work but with temporary restrictions due to a medical condition, injury, or recovery period. The note outlines specific limitations to help the employer adjust job responsibilities accordingly.
What Is a Doctor’s Note for Light Duty?
This note serves as medical clearance for an employee to resume work under limited physical or functional demands. It is commonly used after injuries, surgeries, or during recovery from illnesses that restrict full performance.
A light duty note ensures the employee remains productive while avoiding tasks that could delay healing or cause harm.
When Do You Need It?
You may need a light duty note in cases such as:
- Returning to work after a musculoskeletal injury (e.g., sprain, strain, fracture)
- Recovery following surgery or medical procedures
- Experiencing chronic conditions like back pain, arthritis, or fatigue
- Pregnancy-related limitations
- Post-hospital discharge recovery periods
- Any condition requiring restrictions such as no lifting, limited standing, or modified schedule
What Should It Include?
A valid Doctor’s Note for Light Duty typically includes:
- Employee’s full name
- Date of medical evaluation
- Statement that the patient is fit to return to work with restrictions
- Specific work limitations (e.g., lifting limit, sitting/standing duration, no climbing)
- Duration of restrictions or expected re-evaluation date
- Name, credentials, and signature of the healthcare provider
- Contact information and clinic or hospital name
The note may also include recommendations for accommodation or a timeline for full duty resumption.
How to Get a Doctor’s Note for Light Duty
To obtain a light duty note:
- Schedule a visit with your healthcare provider
- Undergo a physical evaluation and discuss your job responsibilities
- Request a written note outlining restrictions clearly for your employer
- Ensure the note is signed, dated, and includes the provider’s contact information
- Request a printed or digital version depending on your employer’s preference
In some cases, occupational health clinics can assess work capacity and provide tailored light duty notes.
Working with Restrictions
Once you submit the note:
- Your employer may assign temporary modified duties
- You should not be asked to perform tasks outside the stated limitations
- A follow-up appointment may be needed to reassess your condition
- If you cannot be accommodated, you may qualify for medical leave or disability benefits
- Maintain open communication with HR or your supervisor to ensure compliance and safety
Light duty assignments help prevent re-injury and support a gradual return to full health.
Legal and Workplace Considerations
- Employers are often legally required to provide reasonable accommodations for documented medical restrictions
- A valid note helps you maintain job protection while managing your recovery
- You are not obligated to disclose your diagnosis—only necessary work limitations
- Refusal to accommodate a legitimate light duty note could be grounds for legal review in some jurisdictions
- Always check your company’s return-to-work or modified duty policy
A Doctor’s Note for Light Duty allows a safe and structured transition back to work while respecting your physical limitations.ures clear communication with your employer while allowing you to focus on full recovery before returning to work.