Can I send private patients to NHS A&E?

In what circumstances can a private GP refer back into the NHS?

According to the BMA, "Private GPs are free to refer their patients to the NHS in the same way as NHS GPs can refer their patients to the private sector." This means, if you are a private GP, referring patients to NHS services such as A&E is an available option, especially when acute care is necessary.

Referring to A&E, or working with NHS on-call specialists, is quite straightforward. Urgent situations require immediate attention, and the NHS system accommodates these scenarios easily, ensuring patients get the necessary emergency care.

"The BMA clarifies that private GPs can direct patients to NHS A&E, maintaining that critical care pathway."

When it comes to making a two-week wait (2WW) referral for suspected cancer, it involves a bit more process. You’ll need the local proformas and the specific contact details of the 2WW team. Typically, there is a preference for these to be submitted via ERS, but given private GPs currently lack access to this system, secure emails (like NHS mail or Egress) are the alternative.

As for regular, less acute referrals, the clarity of the process diminishes. Private GPs often find that without access to the NHS Electronic Referral Service (ERS), these kinds of referrals can become convoluted. It might sometimes be simpler to refer the patient to another private service. Alternatively, if the patient chooses NHS treatment, providing them with comprehensive consultation notes to take to their NHS GP is advisable.

As a private GP, can I make regular NHS referrals?

Legally, yes, but practically, it can become complex. For emergency and suspected cancer referrals, the NHS accommodates these, albeit through manual pathways. For routine referrals, such as chronic conditions or specialist evaluations that aren't urgent, coordinating through the patient's NHS GP might be more seamless.

Utilising systems like EMIS Web could assist in maintaining thoroughly detailed patient records, which are invaluable when preparing referrals or coordinating care between private and NHS services. Additionally, platforms like Hero Health can support patient engagement and streamline communication, facilitating better patient flow, which can be especially beneficial in coordinating between private and public healthcare sectors.

If you have further questions on managing referrals and patient care pathways as a private GP, don't hesitate to explore resources and reach out to your local GP networks. Maintaining open communication channels with your NHS counterparts will also significantly ease this process.