RCGP response to DWP’s fit note reform plan
The RCGP says fit note reform must put patients' health first rather than be driven by cutting benefit costs.
Category Fees & non-NHS work
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Key resources
Most work outside the NHS contract can be charged for, but some certificates must be provided free. Practices set their own fees. The BMA publishes guidance and a fees calculator rather than fixed rates.
Charging
Reports and certificates
Template letters
- Fit notes for absences under seven days Word
- Schools asking for sickness notes Word
- Schools asking for notes for toilet passes Word
- Letters about fitness to exercise, work or travel Word
- Letters for exam special consideration Word
- Requests for GP letters for housing or benefits Word
- Medical reports for benefit claims Word
- Practice policy: DWP benefit appeals Word
- Flying during pregnancy Word
- Notice: firearms and shotgun certificate medical reports Word
- Private GPs asking you to refer Word
- BMA letter to private providers PDF
Links go to BMA guidance. Some pages may need a BMA member login. Contracted NHS work, including GMS and DES, is under Contracts & funding. More template letters are on the Templates & letters page.
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