Increasing numbers of patients are now seeking Private treatment for many different Medical and Psychiatric issues. This is often due to the presence of long waiting lists for NHS Hospital and Outpatient treatment. Some examples include ADHD medication, Roaccutane, weight loss medication and Bariatric Surgery (among many other treatments). We fully understand that such treatment can be costly. However, our Practice policy is very clear that any patients having Private treatment should be provided with Private prescriptions and have any required monitoring carried out Privately. This is because NHS resources in Primary care are very limited, and must be reserved for NHS patients only.
In addition, many medications recommended by Private clinicians can only be initiated and monitored by Hospital Clinicians, and not GPs.
This policy is in line with the majority of Lothian Practices, and is in accordance with local guidance from the Lothian Local Medical Committee.