Requests to convert Private Prescriptions to FP10s following assessment or treatment in the private healthcare sector

Under NHS GMS Regulations the patient is entitled to receive any drug which is available on the NHS, via an NHS prescription.

Therefore, GPs can convert a private script to an FP10 if the patient requests this.

However, the GMC duty to prescribe only in the best interests of the patient and only within your level of competence, takes priority.

There are a number of circumstances when prescribers will decline the request or offer to prescribe an alternative medicine.

He or she may decline to prescribe if:

• A letter explaining the full rationale for the treatment has not been provided by the consultant in the private sector.
• He or she feels the medicine is not clinically necessary.
• The medication is unlicensed.
• The medication is prescribed outside of its licensed indication.
• The medication is not one he or she would normally prescribe.
• The medication needs special monitoring and he or she feels they do not have the expertise to do this.
• The use of the medication conflicts with NICE guidance or locally agreed protocols.
• An equivalent but equally effective medicine is prescribed locally under prescribing advice from the CCG. In this situation you will be offered the equivalent medicine.

In any of these circumstances the patient will retain the option of purchasing the recommended medicine via a prescription from their consultant in the private sector.

There is also no provision for refunding any money already spent on private treatment, including medicines.