Patient referrals from a GP for private services
If a patient chooses to seek private treatment, they can self-refer. However, some consultants will only see patients that have a referral from a GP.
If a private provider requires medical information about a patient, this can be provided by the patient by supplying copies of hospital letters received by the patient or by sharing their medical records via the NHS app or online medical records system. Patients can make a SAR (subject access request) to obtain a free of charge printed summary of their medical record.
Organising tests requested by a private provider
It is outside the scope of NHS primary medical services, to arrange tests or investigations at the request of private providers.
The NHS GMS Regulations define essential services as services which are delivered in the manner determined by the GP in discussion with the patient. Therefore, a GP provider should only carry out investigations and prescribe medication for a patient where it is necessary for the GP’s care of the patient and the GP is the responsible doctor.
For these reasons RVFP do not accept private treatment requests, and patient will be directed back to the private provider.
Prescribing medication requested by a private provider
GMC Good Medical Practice states that doctors in the NHS and private sector should “prescribe drugs or treatment, including repeat prescriptions, only when they have adequate knowledge of the patient’s health and are satisfied that the drugs or treatment serve the patient’s needs.”
If requested by a private consultant to initiate or continue prescribing medications, and if the GP agrees with this advice, then this could be appropriate. However, if your GP does not feel competent to prescribe the requested medication, or they do not know if the medication best serves the patient’s need, the GP will inform the private provider that the prescriptions should be provided by a specialist.
