Non NHS Medical Services
Introduction
Certain certificates and examinations are not covered by the NHS and a fee will be charged for these services.
Additional Services
Charges are made for services outside of NHS contracts please see our list of the services Mansion House Surgery offers for a fee. We ask that these services are paid for upon collection or for Private medicals for adoption or fostering and insurances the fee will be requested upon completion of the form and sent upon receipt of the payment.
Some frequently asked questions about other services charged for by the practice.
Why do GPs sometimes charge fees?
It is important to understand that many GPs are not employed by the NHS. They are self-employed and they have to cover their costs, for example staff, buildings, heating, lighting, etc, in the same way as any small business. The NHS covers these costs for NHS work, but for non NHS work, the fees charged by GPs contribute towards their costs.
What is covered by the NHS and what is not?
The Government’s contract with GPs covers medical services to NHS patients, including the provision of ongoing medical treatment. However, more and more organisations have been involving doctors in a whole range of non-medical work. Sometimes the only reason that GPs are asked is because they are in a position of trust in the community, or because an insurance company or employer wants to ensure that information provided to them is true and accurate.
Why does it sometimes take the GP a long time to complete my form?
Time spent completing forms and preparing reports takes the GP away from the medical care of his or her patients. Most GPs have a very heavy workload and paperwork takes up an increasing amount of their time, so many GPs find they have to take some paperwork home at night and weekends.
Do GPs have to do non NHS work for their patients?
With certain limited exceptions, for example a GP confirming that one of their patients is not fit for jury service, 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, for example for insurance purposes, they are not required to do such non NHS work.
Examples of non NHS services for which GPs can charge other institutions
- life assurance and income protection reports for insurance companies
- reports for the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) in connection with disability living allowance and attendance allowance
- medical reports for local authorities in connection with adoption and fostering
Examples of non-NHS services for which GPs can charge their own NHS patients
- accident or sickness certificates for insurance purposes
- school fee and holiday insurance certificates
- reports for health clubs to certify that patients are fit to exercise
Mansion House Surgery prides itself on accommodating as many of the services for our patients as possible, but from time to time may not be able to assist due to the demands of NHS contract work and resources available to us. Please contact the Practice Secretaries with your enquiries. Please be aware this work is not a Practice priority and will therefore take time to complete.