It is not quite so easy to judge the positive benefits of convalescence. Modern medical thinking favours a quick return to the patient's own home following hospital confinement. Psychologically it is probably preferable for the patient to return home rather than spend time in an intermediate foreign environment as a step down from hospital care. It is ironic that in returning home, the patient may be returning to a less secure environment having been successfully protected from the pressures of the workplace and family life in hospital. Some employers contact employees at home with subtle pressures which result in an earlier return to work than medically desirable.
Pressure occasionally comes from the patients themselves.
The GP may have to be assertive, insisting that the individual does not return to work prematurely. GPs should advocate the need for time and space for the recovering patient. Next time you certify a patient fit for work you should question if you are really acting in the patient's best interest.