After seeing a private doctor

Guidance on prescriptions and further clinical investigation after seeing a private doctor

Can I get my private prescription/further clinical investigation transferred on to the NHS?

If you start your treatment with a private doctor or specialist and they recommend a particular medication or investigation for you, this would have to be arranged and done privately, unless the private GP or specialist arrange them on the NHS. The GP practice will not usually be able to transfer an initial private prescription onto an NHS prescription, nor private investigation requests to NHS GP tests. Private specialists can refer directly to related NHS specialist teams

What happens when I continue the treatment on the NHS?

If you ask your GP to take over prescribing of a medication or treatment recommended by the private doctor or specialist, they will need to be satisfied that prescribing is appropriate, responsible and what they would prescribe for other NHS patients with the same diagnosis/condition.

Your GP may not prescribe the particular medication suggested by a private doctor in the following circumstances:

• The medication is generally not prescribed on the NHS.
• The use of the medication is not compatible with national or local prescribing guidelines.
• The medication is not licensed in the UK or is being used for a purpose not included in its UK licence.
• The medication is not listed in the Sussex Partner Formulary.
• The GP does not believe the medication is appropriate or necessary for you.

If your GP is unable to prescribe the medication suggested by the private doctor, they may give you the option of having a different but equally effective medication prescribed on the NHS.

Alternatively, if you prefer, you can pay for your private prescription through your private doctor.

This will not affect any other medications, which are currently prescribed for you by your GP.