We've put some small files called cookies on your device to make our site work.
We would also like to use google translate cookies and analytical cookies to understand how our site is used and improve user experience. Analytical cookies send information to Google Analytics.
Let us know your preference. We will use a cookie to save your choice. Before you make your choice you can read more about our cookie policy.
You can change your cookie settings at any time using our cookie policy.
Some services provided are not covered under our contract with the NHS and therefore attract charges. Examples include the following:
The Fees for these services are based upon the British Medical Association (BMA) suggested scales and our reception staff will be happy to advise you about them.
Why do GP's charge fees?
The Government's contract with GPs covers medical services to NHS patients, including the provision of ongoing medical treatment.
In recent years, however, more and more organisations have been involving GPs in a range of non-medical work such as insurance companies or employers who want reassurance that the information provided to them is true and accurate.
But isn't the GP getting paid anyway?
Please note that many GPs are not employed by the NHS. They are self-employed, Independent Contractors and so they have to cover their costs for staff, buildings, heating, lighting, security, etc in the same way as any other business. The NHS covers these costs for NHS work, but not for non-NHS work, and so the fees charged by GPs contribute towards their costs.
Must GPs do non-NHS work for their patients?
With certain limited exceptions GPs do not have to carry out non-NHS work on behalf of their patients.
Whilst GPs will always attempt to assist their patients with the completion of forms etc, for example for insurance purposes, medical etc they are not requires to do such non-NHS work.
Why does it sometimes take a GP a long time to complete these requests?
A GPs priority is their NHS work, and so time spent away completing forms and preparing reports takes the GP away from the medical care of heir patients.
Why does it take so long as I only need a GP's signature?
When a GP signs a certificate or completes a report, it is a condition of remaining on the Medical Register that they only sign what they know to be true. In order to complete even the simplest of forms, therefore, the GP might have to check a patient's entire medical record. Carelessness or inaccurate information can lead to serious consequences for the GP with the General Medical Council (GMC) or event Police.