Some work that patients ask us to do (such as certificates or examinations or reports) are NOT covered under our NHS contract. These are referred to as “non-NHS Services” or “private services” and a fee is charged for these (usually in advance).
Below is a list of private work that (capacity allowing) we WILL undertake and the charges that will apply:
Services not offered
Unfortunately, some requests for non-NHS work will be refused. Below is a list of private work that we do NOT do:
- Fitness to fly in pregnancy letter
Search google for Fitness to fly in pregnancy private options
One available option is – Fit to Fly Certificate Pregnancy – ZoomDoc
Your chosen airline may offer their own options. - Sky diving or scuba diving forms
Search google for Sky diving or scuba diving medicals
Some available options are – - Seatbelt exemption forms or letters
Medical exemption from compulsory seat belt wearing: guidance for medical practitioners – GOV.UK - Signing of Passport photos
Follow link for information on alternative signing options Countersigning passport applications and photos: When you must get a signature and who can sign – GOV.UK - Blue badge applications
Follow this link for further information – Apply for or renew a Blue Badge – GOV.UK
If your blue badge application is declined, the GP will consider writing a letter. - Housing or Personal Independence Payment (PIP) letters or reports
We do not do letters or reports for housing or PIP at the request of the patient. If the agency in question feels they need GP input, they will contact us directly and we will cooperate fully. Much of the information you need is visible on the NHS App for free.
Private Services – FAQs
Why is there a charge?
Some certificates and examinations are not covered under the work we provide under our NHS contract. These are referred to as “non-NHS Services” or “private services” and a fee is charged for these.
To ensure that our time and resources are properly managed we will often ask for payment in advance.
These are guide prices and we reserve the right to alter them where it is reasonable to do so. These costs will be discussed with patients in advance of work being carried out.
Fees are payable in person by card or cash at Holt or Melton Surgeries or by calling the Medical Secretary team. We are unable to take card payments at Blakeney Surgery.
My request is not listed. Will the Surgery be able to do it?
If you want to discuss the cost of any non-NHS work that does not appear in the table, please complete an online form directing your query to a medical secretary.
How long should I allow for the work to be done?
Please allow up to 28 days for the work to be completed. The practice has a substantial volume of non-NHS work to complete weekly, in addition to the usual NHS work and hours. An additional charge may be levied for more urgent requests.
How can I help?
Not all documents need a signature by a doctor. You can ask another person in a position of trust to sign such documents free of charge. Read the information that comes with these types of forms carefully before requesting your GP to complete them.
Ensure you have enclosed all relevant paperwork and information with your request, and completed in full any parts of the form you are required to complete as the patient. Missing information may mean the GP is unable to complete the request and this may lengthen the process.
Please be patient with us. Whilst our GPs will always attempt to assist with this where possible, as NHS providers, we have to prioritise NHS care. This means for private work to be completed without impacting our NHS service, our GPs complete these requests in their own time.