Payment of fees for non-NHS work by GPs

The National Health Service 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 is made to cover some of the cost of treatment, for example dental fees; in other cases, it is because the service is not covered by the NHS, for example, providing copies of health records or producing medical reports for insurance companies.

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 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 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.

Examples of non-NHS services for which GPs can charge their own NHS patients are:

• accident/sickness certificates for insurance purposes
• school fee and holiday insurance certificates
• reports for health clubs to certify that patients are fit to exercise
• To Whom It May Concern Letters, for example to schools or higher educational establishments.

Do GPs have to do non-NHS work for their patients?

Whilst GPs will always attempt to assist their patients with the completion of formsthey are not required to do non-NHS work unless there is a limited exception, for example confirming fitness to attend jury service.

Please refer to our Non-NHS Fee Work Structure.  Please note this list is not exhaustive and charges will vary according to the level of work required.

For more information visit the BMA Website.

Online Requests for GP Letters

If you would like to request for your GP to write a letter then please use the online form.  This form is only for use when you do NOT have any other additional paperwork for the GP to complete (for example an insurance claim form.)  Depending on the nature of this request your GP may request to see you.