Why GPs sometimes charge fees - 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 – staff, buildings, heating, lighting, etc – in the same way as any small business. The NHS covers these costs for NHS work, but for non-NHS work, the fees charged by GPs contribute towards their costs.

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 ongoing 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:

• accident or sickness certificates for insurance purposes,
• holiday insurance certificates,
• reports for health clubs to certify that patients are fit to exercise.

Examples of non-NHS services for which GPs can charge other institutions:

• life assurance and income protection reports for insurance companies,
• reports for the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) in connection with Disability Living Allowance and Attendance Allowance,
• medical reports for local authorities in connection with adoption and fostering.

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

GPs do not have to carry out non-NHS work on behalf of their patients. Whilst GPs will always attempt to assist their patients with the completion of forms, for example for insurance purposes, they are not required to do such non-NHS work.

A list of fees for non NHS Services is available by clicking on this text.