The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has issued updated guidance for healthcare professionals who complete medical reports for the DWP or its assessment providers. These reports are used by DWP decision makers to determine benefit entitlement and may also be used in appeals.
Key changes include the removal of the requirement for GPs to countersign factual reports completed by their practice nurses for forms such as ESA113, FRR2, PIP, and DLA/AA. Additionally, the eligibility for 'Special Rules' for PIP, DLA, and Attendance Allowance has been extended from 6 months to 12 months. The SR1 form has now replaced the DS1500 for 'Special Rules' medical evidence.
The guidance also notes that references to forms ESA50 and UC50 have been replaced with the new form WCA50. Information has been added regarding NHS guidance on information sharing, and a link to the 'Send a SR1 medical evidence form' online service has been included.