The way in which patients can access their medical records has changed since the new GDPR (General Data Protection Regulations) have come into force.
It is important to understand that many GP’s 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 businesses.
The Government’s contract with GP’s covers medical services to NHS patients, including the provision of on-going medical treatment. In recent years however, more and more organisations have been involving doctors in a whole range of non-medical work.
Sometimes the only reason that 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 ensure that the information provided to them is true and accurate.
With certain limited exceptions, for example a GP confirming that one of their patients is not fit for jury service, GP’s do not have to carry out non-NHS work on behalf of their patients. Whilst GP’s will always attempt to assist their patients with the completion of forms, they are not required to do so.
The British Medical Association have suggested fees that GP’s may charge their patients for non-NHS work (i.e work not covered under their contract with the NHS) in order to help GP’s set their own professional fees. However, the fees suggested by the BMA are for guidance only; they are not recommendations and a doctor is not obliged to charge the rates suggested.
Private work is not a clinical priority and will be undertaken when the doctor has time. Therefore please allow sufficient time for completion of any private work.
Please give us as much notice as you can of your requirement for a medical examination or report and ensure that you bring in any relevant documentation into the surgery for completion or with you at your appointment should you require an examination.
For more information please visit –
https://www.bma.org.uk/advice/employment/fees/why-gps-charge-fees
PLEASE NOTE: We accept cash and cheque ONLY
If you have any questions about private fees & charges or you wish to know the prices, please call into Reception.
