GPs provide NHS medical care under a national contract, but many organisations also ask doctors to complete non‑NHS work, such as forms, reports, certificates and letters.
This work is outside NHS funding and is often requested because GPs are trusted professionals who can verify information accurately.
Non‑NHS tasks must be completed in the GP’s own time, and there is usually a fee payable in advance.
Fees vary because they reflect the time, complexity and professional responsibility involved.
GPs must only sign statements they know to be true, which means even simple forms may require checking your full medical record.
This can take time and cannot be prioritised over clinical care or appointments.
Some tasks, such as cremation form, are not part of NHS duties and have nationally agreed fees. Death certificates, however, are completed free of charge.
To help us plan GP time, please allow up to four weeks for non‑NHS reports or letters. Urgent requests can be noted, but clinical work must always come first.
