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GPs told to stop benefit letters

GPs in south east Wales are being advised to stop writing letters supporting benefit appeals.

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GPs 'not in position to administer' benefits system

Bro Taf Local Medical Committee represents all GPs in Cardiff, the Vale of Glamorgan, Rhondda Cynon Taff and Merthyr Tydfil. The LMC has sent a letter to all its GPs for them to give to patients asking for letters to support benefit appeals.

The benefits system is undergoing major change and this is impacting on many people across the country, affecting the amount of money they receive and the benefits for which they are eligible.

GPs have a contract with the NHS to provide general medical servicesto their patients and are not in a position to administer or police thebenefits system.

The LMC considers that it is not appropriate for GPs to be asked for letters of support or letters to confirm care needs. GPs are not contracted or resourced to provide this kind of service and making such requests to GPs represents an abuse of NHS resources.

GPs do provide some medical services to the Department of Work and Pensions under contract, but these are subject to an agreed process that involves the Departments concerned directly requesting information from GPs.

– Bro Taf Local Medical Committee
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GPs told to stop benefit letters

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