The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has introduced updated guidance and revised order forms for healthcare professionals across the UK who require pre-printed medical evidence documents. These changes are designed to streamline the process for obtaining essential forms such as Med3 (fit notes), Med10, MATB1 maternity certificates, SR1, and PIP1SREL end-of-life forms, which are vital for individuals claiming various DWP benefits.
A significant update in the new guidance emphasises that all completed medical evidence forms must now be submitted electronically. The DWP specifies that forms should be emailed to dwp@hhglobal.com. Crucially, any submissions made via fax, as handwritten documents, or as paper copies will no longer be processed, underscoring a move towards a fully digital system for these administrative tasks.
The updated resources include revised versions of the order forms for Med3 and Med10, MATB1, and SR1/PIP1SREL forms. The DWP has also provided clearer instructions on how to use these forms, particularly for the Med3 and Med10 orders, where the description now explicitly states they are for healthcare professionals to download and fill in. Additional advice has been incorporated into the 'How to order DWP medical evidence forms: guidance for healthcare professionals' document, reinforcing the electronic submission requirement.
Specific adjustments have also been made concerning MATB1 forms, which are necessary for claiming Statutory Maternity Pay or Maternity Allowance. New information has been added regarding ordering these forms for healthcare professionals operating outside of the UK, with an exception noted for British Armed Forces staff. Furthermore, the guidance now includes a link for healthcare professionals in Northern Ireland to order their pre-printed forms, ensuring consistency across different regions.
These updates reflect an ongoing effort by the DWP to modernise its processes and improve efficiency for healthcare providers. By digitising submissions and clarifying ordering procedures, the DWP aims to reduce administrative burdens and potentially speed up the processing of benefit claims that rely on these medical documents.
Healthcare professionals are advised to consult the latest guidance and use the updated forms to ensure compliance with the new electronic submission requirements. The changes are intended to create a more straightforward and consistent ordering and submission pathway for critical medical evidence.
Source: DWP