I refer to Stephen Calleja’s article “Sick leave abuse – Doctors are blamed... but others are involved – MP (TMIS, 31 May) where the MP, Dr Jean-Pierre Farrugia, is quoted to have stated that the system should change to one in which sick leave certificates are “issued exclusively by the company doctor, as long as he is obliged to examine, investigate and treat the worker...”

It may interest the public and Dr Farrugia to note that such a request, if put into effect, would breach professional ethics. Many people have their own family doctor. A patient has the right to be examined and treated by the doctor of his/her choice and not by one imposed by any other entity such as a company. This right is protected at law as far as I am aware.

A company doctor has an undeniably biased interest in favour of the company that puts him/her in a dangerously compromised situation detrimental to the health and safety of the patient-employee. I have experienced this at first hand.

Such a doctor has absolutely no right whatsoever to advise let alone “treat” workers phoning in sick. Sadly, this is already the regular practice; dangerous, objectionable and unethical as it may be, it is an abuse in itself and undermines the interests of both the patient (as already explained), as well as that of his/her family doctor whose livelihood depends on that person. The company doctor’s role is purely to verify sickness and definitely not to investigate, nor to advise or treat. Even the official “blue” sick leave certificate itself should be the responsibility of the patient’s family doctor as distinct from a “notification (verification) of sickness”, which might be considered the prerogative of the company doctor.

It would be highly desirable if the Medical Council of Malta would issue clear guidance on this matter.

Dr Mark Bugeja MD MMCFD, PEMBROKE