Returning to work after a heart attack.

[Friendsoneuptown]

My DH had a heart attack very unexpectedly 5 weeks ago. He had to have a stent fitted but is getting there. Feels good.

He drives for work so this is reportable to DVLA as he drives a 7 tonne van as a courier. We know he will need a medical before being allowed back.

DH is fit and healthy or was. 50, non smoker, doesn’t drink beyond socially, goes to the gym. Is active all the time etc.

Work haven’t been forthcoming with him at the moment and DH is worried about his job. Even if he passes his medical with his GP, can his work refuse to have him back or must they have him back and find another role for him? He’s been there 7 years.

DH hoping to increase exercise over the next month or so and hopefully be be back late January or early February. Another worry is a phased return. His work really are an all or nothing type place as it is so full on and busy.

Can anyone offer any guidance or thoughts? Thank you.

If he has a doctor’s fit note saying he is fit to return to normal duties then they’d struggle to justify not having him back.

If he’s not fit to do his own job but would be fit to do something else, they are not expected to invent work for him to do, or “find a role” if there isn’t one. If there is a vacant role available that he could do, they would be expected to at least trial that.

If his fit note says phased return, that’s not something they are obliged to facilitate- if they can’t accommodate the recommendations, he stays off sick.

There are so many variables when it comes to capability, it will depend on how long he is off, the likely prospects of him returning to normal, the availability or otherwise of alternative work.

Thank you. This is very helpful.