On sick leave, Employer says I must pay for medical report?

Hi all

I am out sick from work for the last five weeks. I got a letter from my employer today to say that they will be writing to my GP for a full medical report and I will be liable for payment of same? Is this correct? I have been out sick twice previously in ten years and never got a letter like this before.

sw girl

Are you getting illness benefit? If so, you should be getting weekly certs from your doctor. My employer pays me in full when off sick, but if it goes on for more than three days I apply for illness benefit and sign it over to my employer.

I suggest that without your consent, your GP cannot divulge your medical details to your employer.

Thanks for the replys, I have provided them with weekly certs, and I have no issue with them getting a medical report but wondering why they want me to pay for this?