The NHS does not pay for some of the services we provide. These include private sick notes, insurance forms, holiday cancellation forms, medical reports, fitness to travel certificates, passport signing, HGV and other driving medicals and some vaccination services. Our fees for these services are displayed below and in the waiting room.

CERTIFICATES AND FORMS

MEDICAL EXAMINATIONS AND REPORTS

Please note that we no longer provide private travel vaccinations.

We are unable to countersign passport and driving licence applications.

Payment required in advance by card payment or cash.

Isn’t the NHS supposed to be free?

The NHS provides most health care to most people free of charge, but there are some exceptions for example: prescription charges for some people, medical reports for insurance companies.

Surely the Doctor is being paid anyway?

It is important to understand that GPs are not employed by the NHS, they are self-employed and they have to cover their costs, for example, staff, heat and light like any other small business. The NHS covers these costs for NHS work but not for Non NHS work. The fee charged for Non NHS work therefore goes towards covering these costs.

What is covered by the NHS and what is not?

The Governments contract with GPs covers medical services to NHS patients. In recent years more and more organisations have been involving GPs in a wide range of non-medical work. Sometimes the only reason that GPs are asked to be involved is because they are in a position of trust in the community or because an insurance company, employer or solicitor wants to be sure that information that you have provided them with is accurate and true.

So what sort of thing will I be charged for?

As an example there will be a charge for medical reports for insurance companies or mortgage applications. Forms that need completing because you have had to cancel your holiday will incur a charge. Questionnaires that need completing for private gyms and private slimming clubs will incur a charge, as will a letter that may be required if you want to leave a private gym for health reasons.

Is it true that the British Medical Association sets fees for Non NHS work?

The British Medical Association (BMA) has in the past provided guidance for GPs in setting their fees. This is less common now and GPs are able to set their own fees to ensure that their costs in delivering the services are covered. Time spent completing private reports and undertaking private medical examinations are generally done outside of normal working hours as an extra commitment to a GPs workload.

I only need a Doctors signature – what’s the problem?

When a Doctor signs a certificate or a report, they can only sign for what they know to be true and accurate. In order to complete even the simplest of forms the Doctor will need to check the Patients medical record. Carelessness or an inaccurate report can have serious consequences for the Doctor as well as the patient.

How long will I wait for a report?

A Doctors priority will always be the care provided for patients under the NHS. The work described here that is non NHS work is often carried out outside of normal working hours and the waiting time is therefore affected. We suggest three weeks for completion of a report providing the GP who knows you are available. Appointments for private medicals can usually be arranged within a couple of weeks. Please ask our reception team for further details.

How much will I be charged?

Please see below the list of charges for the most common services.

Payment for services can be made by cash or cheque made out to Dr Antonov or Dr Hall. A receipt will be provided on all occasions. Payment will be required in advance or upon collection (cash only).

If the service you require is not on the list please ask at reception and a quotation can be provided.