Private Work
Your GP can complete a variety of private work such as completing insurance reports or seeing you for an HGV medical. For a full list of the work covered and the price you can expect to pay, please download the Private Fees document at the bottom of this page.Â
Why do GPs charge fees - surely the doctor is being paid anyway?
It is important to understand that Strathesk Medical Practice GPs are not employed by the NHS. GP partners are self-employed and have to cover costs in the same way as any other small business i.e. staff, building, heating, lighting, stationary etc. These costs are covered partly by the NHS for NHS work, but private fees also contribute towards these expenses.
What costs do the NHS cover and what is not?
The Government’s contract with GPs covers medical services to NHS patients, including the provision of ongoing medical treatment. However, in recent years, more and more organisations have been involving doctors in a 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.
Do GPs have to do non-NHS work for their patients?
Whilst GPs will always attempt to assist patients with the completion of forms e.g. for insurance purposes, GPs are not contractually required to do non-NHS work. At Strathesk Medical Practice, we do not countersign driving license applications or passport applications.
Who sets the fees for non-NHS work?
Strathesk Medical Practice sets its prices following guidance from The British Medical Association (who are the professional association and registered trade union for British doctors).
Why does it sometimes take my GP a long time to complete my form?
Strathesk Medical Practice GPs have a very heavy workload and prioritise NHS work. They often work well into the evening. Private work is completed in their own time. Please expect that any private work you request will likely take a minimum of two weeks to be completed, but may take four weeks or more depending on workload.
I only need the doctor's signature - what is the problem?
To remain on the Medical Register, the doctor must only sign or complete a certificate or report that they know to be true. In order to complete even the simplest of forms the doctor will check the patient's entire medical record. Carelessness or an inaccurate report can have serious consequences for the doctor with the General Medical Council (the doctors' regulatory body) or even the Police.