Why GPs sometimes charge fees and what to expect

People told us they are concerned about the amount they are being charged by they GP for signatures, certificates and reports.
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Why do GPs charge fees?

GPs are paid by the NHS to cover medical services for NHS patients and to provide ongoing medical treatment. Many GPs work as independent businesses and can charge fees for non-NHS work. 

Why do fees vary between GP practices? 

Individual doctors are free to set their own fees for any non-NHS work they do. This means your surgery may charge a different amount to another one. 

What fees to expect for non-NHS work?

Although doctors can set their own fees, it is recommended that they follow BMA guidelines

 

Your GP can charge you £18 for a certificate of fact, up to £63 for more complex certificates and up to £133 for detailed reports on your condition.

BMA website 2017

What GPs cannot charge for: 

  • Fit note
  • Bankruptcy 
  • Coroner's post-mortem
  • Council tax exemptions
  • death certificates
  • stillbirth certificates
  • Notification of infectious disease
  • Paternity tests
  • Professional evidence in court

Please note that GPs can only sign passports if they know you well and for longer than 2 years.

How can you help:

  • Always ask your GP how much they are going to charge and how long it will take before asking them to carry out non-NHS work.
  • Check if your request can be completed by a professional other than your GP.
  • Speak to your local Healthwatch if you are still concerned