The NHS provides most healthcare and healthcare services free of charge to UK residents, but there are some exceptions.
GPs themselves have to cover operational & running costs- buildings, equipment, heating, lighting, maintenance, Insurance, staff etc. Therefore professional fees charged must reflect a contribution to these costs as well as professional time.
Individual practices decide how much to charge for non NHS services. There are no standard charges and ‘price fixing’ between practices is not allowed.
What can be charged for?
Examples include the following:
- Medicals for pre-employment, sports and driving requirements (HGV, PSV etc.)
- Passport signing
- Prescriptions for taking medication abroad
- Private sick notes
- Vaccination certificates
Examples of Non NHS services for which the practice can charge other organisations include:
- DWP/Benefits Agency Reports
- European working time directive certification
- Medical Reports for Insurance Companies
- Reports for Solicitors
We can usually inform you of the likely charge when you ask for the paperwork to be completed.
