GPs will not prescribe medications recommended

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Guest's review of Benenden Healthcare Health Insurance

“GPs will not prescribe medications recommended”

★★★★☆

written by on 05/07/2014

I have been a member for many years and had a gall bladder removal op paid for by Benenden. Have always found staff to be very helpful. More recently was referred to see a Rheumatologist. My problem is that GP is refusing to prescribe medication recommended by consultant as the consulation was private and not NHS. I was told I would have to pay for medication privately which would be very costly. GP also refused to pay for blood tests needed. I understand this is becoming a widespread problem. So in effect you are able to see someone ahead of NHS queues but GP will not co-operate unless you go back through NHS referral. Very unfortunate because Benenden is in my opinion taking some of strain away from NHS.

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Benendenuk's Comment

Written on: 18/08/2014

Thank you for your interesting feedback. Please do get in touch if you'd like to discuss this situation further.

Best wishes,
the benenden health team

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Eraseasinhumanity's Comment

Written on: 28/11/2014

Without knowing the exact details of your condition and the medication recommended by the specialist seen privately, it is difficult to comment fully in your case. However, it is important to bear in mind that GPs working in the NHS need to adhere to local prescribing guidelines and follow evidenced-based prescribing practices. Blood tests that GPs request are funded by the NHS and we all need to be mindful of using this precious resource appropriately. Sometimes, the medicines recommended by specialists may not be current first-line recommendations by NICE. These medications may incur extra costs and not necessarily because they are more effective than what is available for GPs to prescribe on the NHS. It would be useful for you to look up current guidelines for your condition to assist your understanding in your GP's decision. The GP's decision may not solely have been based on whether or not your specialist was seen in the private sector.

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