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• kevin.thorogood@gstt.sthames.nhs.uk (opens new window)

The Department of Health has asked the overseas commissioners to procure suitable treatment for orthopaedic patients and some cardiac patients within the EEA.  We currently have sufficient capacity within the EEA, and therefore will not be procuring any further capacity for the foreseeable future.

The Department of Health has strongly recommended to the NHS that they should work with the NHS overseas commissioners in procuring treatment for NHS patients in the EEA.

Unfortunately there are a few organisations who claim to represent the interests of the NHS in purchasing treatment from hospitals overseas.  The Department wishes to make it clear that the procurement of treatment abroad for NHS patients is solely undertaken by the overseas commissioners at Guy's & St. Thomas', or in exceptional cases directly through a Primary Care Trust on the advice of local consultants and wider healthcare team.

UK patients have the right to purchase treatment abroad privately.  However the Department of Health or the NHS will not reimburse patients for treatment where no prior approval has be sought from their local PCT.

How are potential overseas providers assessed?
Overseas hospitals will be asked to provide detailed information about the qualifications and experience of relevant clinical staff, their clinical outcomes, the facilities available, infection control policy and other key quality issues.  Site visits may then be arranged for a clinical scrutiny assessment.

What type of capacity is currently required?
The overseas commissioners are currently referring patients to the EEA for orthopaedic and some cardiac procedures.  Other specialities may be considered depending on the specific needs of the NHS.

Where have NHS patients been referred so far?
NHS patients have been sent to France, Germany and Belgium.