Non-NHS or 'private work'

What is 'private work'?

Some administrative tasks are categorised across the NHS as non-NHS or 'private work' - for example completing insurance forms, or providing medical reports to institutions. The government commissions GPs to supply medical services to NHS patients. As GPs are not reimbursed by the government for carrying out additional administrative work, they need to charge for these services. For more information see Why does my doctor charge fees?

How is the cost calculated?

GPs make a charge to cover their professional time and also for the administrative costs incurred. Bridge Street Medical Centre have ensured that their fees are in line with national standards and BMA guidance.

How long does it take?

The workload at the practice is high and we must prioritise our NHS clinical work. Even relatively simple forms require the GP to go through the patient’s medical notes in detail to ensure we are taking into account all their past medical history. Even if it is just a signature that is being requested the doctor may have to check the patient’s entire medical record to confirm the content that they’re signing. This is a time-consuming process. We aim to complete private work within four weeks.

Are you obliged to complete non-NHS work?

GPs are not obligated to carry out non-NHS work on behalf of their patients. Non-NHS work is at the discretion of the individual GP. Please note that there are some categories of private work that the GP Partners at Bridge Street have agreed they will not undertake:

• Fit to… dive/take part in marathon/skydive etc. The doctors are not indemnified to certify anyone ‘fit to’ take part in sporting or other events. A private GP service may be able to help with these requests.
• Fit to fly. Fitness to fly is a highly specialist area and you are advised to seek the advice of the airline in the first instance. Most airlines have medical advisors who provide advice and can “clear” passengers as fit to fly. If they are unable to help, you will need to seek assistance from a private physician.
• Flying in pregnancy. Your NHS midwife can provide the necessary documentation for free if you need to confirm your gestation to the airline.
• Passport applications. The doctors at Bridge Street do not countersign passport applications. You can ask another person in a position of trust to sign such documents free of charge – there is a list of suitable people on the form.

If you need your medical information you can view this on the NHS app (see this link to download the NHS app) - or our admin team can provide you with a print-out of your medical summary on request, which will show your conditions, medications etc.

Payments

We accept payment by electronic bank transfer or card payments. We ask for payment up front before the letter or form is done.