If we take the example of the recommended duration of sickness absences before returning to full activity (including most manual work) for some common operations, the majority of employees tend to be signed off for longer than medically necessary.
For example, a straightforward hernia operation needs 2–3 weeks at the most for full recovery; however, most GPs will sign off an individual for around 6 weeks. Similarly, a woman who has had a hysterectomy needs 7 weeks or less to fully recover, not 3 months or more (see the DWP GPs Desk Aid).
This is probably to do with custom and practice, and it may take some time before GPs and patients will accept that recovery from operations is a lot quicker than 10 or 20 years ago.
Other reasons for the delay may be caution on the part of the GP or because employees (or employers) want ‘fully fit’ status before returning to work due to concern about injury or about employers’ liability. All these factors may play a part in prolonging sickness absences.