Non-NHS/Private Services
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Isn’t the NHS supposed to be free?
The NHS provides most health care to most people free of charge but there are exceptions. Prescription charges have existed since 1951 and there are a number of other services for which fees are charged. Sometimes the charge covers some of the cost of treatment, for example dental fees. In other cases it is because the service is not covered by the NHS, such as medical reports for insurance companies.
Surely, the doctor is being paid anyway?
GPs are not employed by the NHS, they are self-employed and they have to cover their costs – 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 fee has to cover the doctors costs.
What is covered by the NHS and what is not?
The Government’s contract with GP’s covers medical services to NHS patients. In recent years more organisations have been involving doctors in a range of non-medical work. Sometimes the only reason the GP’s are asked 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.
Please do not expect your GP to process forms overnight.
Please note: For same day urgent requests there will be an increased charge.
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