GPs get extra money to quiz patients before joining a practice in NHS bid stop health tourists

GPs will be given extra money to identify ineligible foreigners in a crackdown on health tourism.

Patients will be asked if they qualify for NHS care before joining a practice.

The data will then be logged and shared with hospitals, so they can bill overseas visitors.

This week ministers announced foreign patients will be charged up-front for NHS care unless their condition is life-threatening.

The Government aims to recover £500million from ineligible patients by next year.


Under the new contract announced yesterday, GPs will get an extra £5million to do eligibility checks.

Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt said: “We’ve made it clear overseas visitors are welcome to use our NHS if they make a fair and proportionate contribution to it.”

Related stories

RUSSIAN INVASION

Giant king crabs from Russia which can grow to 6ft are invading Britain

GREEN SHOOTS

Greatly missed gardening guru Peter Seabrook is honoured by top gardeneners

HOWLER

Brutal 80mph Storm Malik to hit within HOURS as danger to life warning issued

RUM & WOKE

I'm selling my pub after woke locals said I was grumpy – I speak my mind

He also warned practices that close mid-week will have funding slashed by up to £15,000.

And those that do not open 8am to 6.30pm throughout the working week will miss extra payments.


The new deal will boost annual reviews for OAPs and checks for those with learning difficulties.

GPs will also receive a one per cent pay rise and improved cover for sickness and parental leave.

The BMA welcomed the deal. But GPs’ committee chief Dr Chaand Nagpaul said they would not act as “border guards”.

    Source: Read Full Article

    Previous post 'Moon Knight': Ethan Hawke Wasn't Sure He Was the Right Actor to Play Arthur Harrow, 'I Was Always a Little Apprehensive'
    Next post Woman told she couldn't have children welcomes two sets of twins