Why do I have to pay?
The NHS will provide most health care to people free of charge; however, there are a few exceptions.The NHS will cover the costs for NHS work. Subsequently, any requests not covered by the NHS contract attract a fee.GPs are self-employed and as such must cover the increasing costs of staff, buildings, heat and light etc.
What is covered by the NHS and what is not?
The government’s contract with GPs covers medical services to NHS patients. In recent years, increasing numbers of organisations have been involving doctors in a whole range of non-medical work. Sometimes the only reason that GP input is required is because they are in a position of trust in the community, or because an insurance company or employer wants to be sure that information provided is true and accurate.Examples of non-NHS Services for which GPs can charge their patients are:- Medicals for pre-employment driving requirements (HGV, PSV etc.)
– Private sick notes
– To Whom it May Concern letters
– Accident/sickness insurance certificates
– Some travel vaccinationsExamples of non-NHS Services for which GPs can charge other institutions are:- Medical reports for insurance agencies
– DVLA reports and medicals
– Examinations of local authority employees
– Foster medicals
How are charges decided?
The British Medical Association (BMA) issue guidelines on suggested fees although each individual practice will set their own charges for each of the services they provide.
Why does it sometimes take my GP a long time to complete my form?
Time spent completing forms and preparing reports takes the GP away from the medical care of their patients. Most GPs have a very heavy workload, which can add up to 60 hours a week and paperwork takes up an increasing amount of their time. Non-NHS work must be undertaken outside of NHS contracted time.
I only need the doctor’s signature, what is the problem?
When a GP is required to complete a certificate or a report it is a condition of remaining on the Medical Register that they sign only what they know to be true and accurate from a patient’s medical record.Inaccurate reporting can have serious consequences for the GP from the General Medical Council or even the police.The GP may have to check the patient’s medical record, and this can be very time consuming in addition to their already heavy clinical workload.We aim to provide a 30-day turnaround for this type of work, often longer if an appointment is required. We are aware that there may be occasions when a request is deemed as urgent, and will always try to help if we can, however if not given adequate time, this may not be possible to complete at short notice.
Please Note
It is at the doctor’s discretion as to whether they will agree to undertake any non-NHS work. We apologise but sometimes we are unable to process some requests for several reasons, we will inform you as soon as possible if this is the case.
