Hi there,
A detailed medical and psychiatric history is always needed for every patient.In addition, a detailed mental status examination is also recommended for every patient to come for a diagnosis and the management of the case accordingly.
Next Steps
From your history about the patient, it’s not clear why your friend went to ask for a medical certificate from a doctor… was he under the treatment of the concerned doctor? Was your friend was under some psychological problems?
As such generally doctors don’t give medical certificate if the patient is not under their treatment.
Having said that, As per your description the behaviour of the doctor was not good.
It’s also to know about details of the premorbid personality of the patient and previous history of illnesses if he had any!
Health Tips
Suicidal ideation by anyone is to be taken seriously .Don’t delay the treatment.Do communicate with the family members of your friend.
Consult a mental health professional as soon as possible.