Continuing Care reports

More and more GPs are being asked to provide Continuing Care Reports.

A GP is required to always act in the patient's best interests and this information should only be provided with the patient's consent.

It is not obligatory to provide any report if it is

• Not part of the essential services as detailed in the new Contract (therefore not included in the Global Sum)
• Not included in the Schedule 4 List of Prescribed Certificates under nGMS regulations

Practical Clarification

Where a simple statement of fact regarding major diagnoses and current medication is requested in order to assist a placement decision, we would confirm this falls within essential services and no fee should be charged i.e. for Palliative Care or to provide confirmation that will enable a clinical practitioner to make an individual decision about treatment or support concerning any patient.

We have developed a Continuing Care Assessment form between the LMC and NHS Hampshire's Director of Continuing Care. We think this form could be used across Wessex and would encourage you to use it when you receive requests.

Download Continuing Care Assessment Form here

Part 1 of this form clarifies information what should be provided free of charge as this is considered to form part of essential services. We believe this IS obligatory

Part 2 allows the GP to provide additional information that would be helpful. This is NOT obligatory but will not attract a fee. (i.e. do this bit out of good will if you wish but you don't have to.)

NB   We would suggest that where a full clinical assessment is required as part of a comprehensive care record, a consultant or other clinician in the multidisciplinary team should be asked to prepare this.

SDW March 2010