Medical Reports – frequently asked questions
“Why do I have to pay?”
Private work is not covered by the NHS. The preparation of private letters/reports/forms has to be completed outside of NHS time and as such there is a fee payable. All of these tasks require the doctor to take time to review a patient’s medical records to ensure that the information provided is correct, the letter/report/form then has to be generated and sent to the patient and/or third party. Because of this, we are unfortunately unable to waive or discount the fee.
“How long will it take?”
Private letters/reports/certificates etc. do not take priority over NHS work and hence may take some time to prepare. Please allow at least 30 working days for reports from receipt of payment and be aware that these are not regulatory SLAs and depending on workload, it may take longer.
“I need it today/tomorrow/next week/sooner”
We understand that receiving your medical reports promptly is important. To ensure accuracy and fairness for all our patients, please take note of the following guidance:
- Processing Times: We are unfortunately unable to expedite or fast-track individual medical report requests.
- Our Commitment: Our team will always do their best to complete your report as soon as possible, ensuring it is thorough and clinically accurate.
- Plan Ahead: We kindly remind patients to leave ample time when submitting a request, particularly if you have a deadline for insurance, employment, or legal purposes.
We appreciate your patience and understanding.
“I only need the doctor’s signature”
When a doctor signs a certificate or completes a report it is a condition of remaining on the Medical Register that they only sign what they know to be true.
To complete even the simplest of forms, the doctor might have to 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.
“I need an amendment to the letter I’ve received”
If an amendment to a letter is required, please make another request here under ‘Questions and Admin’. You will be sent a questionnaire to detail the type of amendment you are requesting. Please note that depending on the type and complexity of your request we may charge you an additional fee.
“The doctor has to write these exact words…”
We are very sorry, but we usually cannot accept requests for the doctor to write the letter in a specific way. The doctor will write what they know is supported by your medical record, and reserve the right to refuse your request or provide alternative wording.
Please note: Our doctors can only provide letters or reports which are factually accurate based on your medical records. They cannot modify them based on individual preferences or requirements. If you request changes to letters or reports which do not match your medical records, your request will not be actioned.