Non NHS Charges

Isn't the NHS supposed to be free?

The NHS provides most health services to people free of charge, but there are some exceptions. Prescription charges have existed since 1951. Sometimes a charge is made because the service is not covered by the NHS; for example Medical Reports for Insurance Companies.

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What is covered by the NHS and what is not?

The Governments contract with GPs covers medical services to NHS patients. Sometimes the only reason that a GP is asked to provide information is because they hold a position of trust in the community, or because an insurance company wants to be sure that the information provided to them is true and correct.

Examples of Non-NHS services which GP’s can charge their NHS patients:

  • Accident/sickness insurance certificates and reports
  • Certain travel vaccinations
  • Private medical insurance reports
  • Reports for ‘fitness to start a diet regime.’
  • Medicals for HGV/Taxi/PSV
  • Elderly Driver Medicals
  • Holiday Cancellation forms
  • Driving Licence Forms


Examples of non-NHS services which GP’s can charge other institutions:

  • Medical reports for an insurance company
  • Some reports for the DSS/Benefits Agency
  • Examinations of local authority/Ofsted Reports
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Why does it take so long for my GP to complete a form or report?

Time spent completing forms and preparing reports takes the GP away from the care of our NHS patients. Our GP’s have a heavy workload—paperwork takes up an increasing amount of time.
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I only need a doctors signature - what is the problem?

When a doctor signs a certificate of report, it is a condition of the Medical Register that they only sign what they know to be true. In order to complete even the simplest of forms, the doctor might have to read a patients entire medical record.

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VAT Charges on some Fees

From 1st May 2007 the Practice has to charge Vat on certain non-NHS fees.

The policy suggested by HM Customs & Excise is that VAT is not chargeable on areas where this protects, maintains or restores the health of an individual.

In cases where the report enables the individual to undertake an activity is chargeable at Standard Rate VAT. Therefore VAT of 20% will apply to medical services primarily to enable a third party to take a decision; eg, a pre-employment medical. Services linked to the Health Care of a patient are currently exempt from VAT.

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Non NHS Patients

£
Appointment in surgery per hour 100.00
Home Visit per hour 190.00

Any drugs required are charged in addition

For More information about charges visit the British Medical Association Website

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Guide to Non-NHS Fees - Practice Leaflet

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