Some services provided are not covered under our contract with the NHS and therefore attract charges.  We are fully trained and equipped to offer the following services on a private basis.  Our staff can help with any enquiries.

• Hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating) treatment
• Cosmetic Procedures - Botox and Dermal Fillers
• Medicals for pre-employment, sports and driving requirements (HGV, PSV etc.)
• Insurance claim forms
• Prescriptions for taking medication abroad
• Certain travel vaccinations
• Private sick notes for work, college or university
• Vaccination certificates
• Power of Attorney / Guardianship forms

Why do GPs sometimes charge fees – surely the doctor is being paid anyway?

It is important to understand that many GPs (including Tor Medical Group) are not employed by the NHS.  GP partners are self-employed and have to cover costs in the same way as any other small business i.e. staff salaries, medical equipment, building, heating, lighting, stationery etc.  These costs are covered partly from NHS work, but private fees also contribute towards these expenses.

What is covered under the NHS and what is not?

The Government’s contract with GPs (including Tor Medical Group) covers core medical services to NHS patients, including the provision of ongoing medical treatment. However, doctors can also be involved in a range of other work which may be classed as additional services, cosmetic in nature, or administrative.  For example, providing information to insurance companies or employers.  

Do GPs have to do non-NHS work for their patients?

Whilst GPs will always attempt to assist patients where possible, GPs are not contractually required to do any non-NHS work.

Who sets the fees for non-NHS work?

Prices are normally based on guidance from The British Medical Association (the professional association and registered trade union for British doctors) and benchmarks these fees against other neighbouring services. 

Why does it sometimes take my GP a long time to complete my form?

Patient care is always highest priority.  Time spent completing forms and preparing reports takes the GP away from the medical care of his or her patients.  Our GPs have a very heavy workload, and paperwork takes up an increasing amount of time.  It can take a minimum of two weeks to complete these forms.

I only need the doctor’s signature – what is the problem?

To remain on the Medical Register, the doctor must only sign or complete a certificate or report that they know to be true.  In order to complete even the simplest of forms the doctor will check the patient’s entire medical record.  Carelessness or an inaccurate report can have serious consequences for the doctor with the General Medical Council (the doctors’ regulatory body) or even the Police.