Non-NHS Services
Some services provided are not covered under our contract with the NHS and therefore attract charges. Examples include the following:
- Medicals for pre-employment, sports and driving requirements (HGV, PSV etc.)
- Insurance claim forms
- Prescriptions for taking medication abroad
- Private sick notes
- Vaccination certificates
The fees charged are based on the British Medical Association (BMA) suggested scales and our reception staff will be happy to advise you about them along with appointment availability.
Private Referrals and Follow-up Policy
This policy is to clarify consultant and GP responsibilities and roles and ensure patient expectations are appropriate and that they correctly informed.
Information for Patients
- If you see a private consultant, they may suggest further simple tests such as bloods, urine or stool tests etc., or more complex tests such as X-rays, scans, scopes depending on the problem. These should be done within the private sector and should be factored into total costs. If you wish to transfer to the NHS for any tests, this should be arranged by the consultant who can refer you to suitable specialties without involvement with the GP practice.
- We would recommend that you follow up on the results of any investigations performed with the referring doctor. It the responsibility of the doctor who is requesting the test to follow up the result and arrange onward management plan.
- If the consultant suggests a prescription, we are able to do an NHS prescription, if the drug and indication of use would be considered appropriate in current up to date guidance for an NHS GP to prescribe. There may be occasions where the GP may decline to prescribe a drug such as the drug not being licensed for the indication intended or not in the Northern Ireland Formulary or if the drug requires monitoring by the specialist ( shared care drugs) . The GP retains the right to decline prescribing if they have a clinical concern. This will be explained to you. The Consultant is still able to prescribe by themselves privately or they are able to refer you into an NHS service where you may be able to obtain the prescription.
- Depending on the treatment/prescription a Consultant recommends, patients should understand and be aware they may have to pay for any ongoing treatment or medications which are recommended(which the GP is not able or willing to prescribe for the reasons listed above).
- Sufficient post-operative medication, e.g. pain relief or anticoagulation, should be provided at discharge following procedures carried out by the private sector providers, without needing a GP prescription.