NHS Policy
By law, the NHS ceases to have responsibility for the medical care of patients when they leave the UK. In addition GPs are not required by their terms of service to provide prescriptions for the treatment of a condition that is not present and may arise while the patient is abroad.
The NHS does accept responsibility for supplying ongoing medication for temporary periods abroad of up to 3 months. However, if a person is going to be abroad for more than 3 months, then they are only entitled (at NHS expense) to a sufficient supply of regular medication in order to get to their destination, where they should then find an alternative supply of that medication.
Patients residing abroad for a period of more than 3 months should be removed from the registered patient list.
Beacon Medical Group Policy
Travelling out of the country for less than 3 months
For patients who inform us they will be out of the country for less than 3 months, we will provide sufficient medicines for an existing condition (e.g. asthma, diabetes…) for the period while the patient is away where it is safe to do so. Drugs that require frequent monitoring may not be prescribed where there are safety concerns. Supply of any medication is at the discretion of the GP.
Travelling out of the country for more than 3 months
Patients who inform us they will be leaving the country for more than 3 months will be prescribed sufficient medication to enable them to make alternative arrangements at their destination (up to 3 months’ supply where safe to do so).
They will also be removed from our patient list. We will be pleased to re-register patients on their return to residence in the UK and can reassure patients that their electronic notes are kept on file for reference on your return.
Patients and relatives should not seek medication for themselves while they are abroad as this constitutes NHS fraud.
Prescriptions for medicines in case of illness while abroad
GP’s will only prescribe NHS prescriptions in this case for exacerbations of pre-existing illnesses. Eg antibiotics for patients who have frequent infections secondary to an underlying lung condition.
GPs may provide private prescriptions if it is clinically appropriate and they can be self-administered safely without medical assessment while abroad. These prescriptions are not free.
Patients should be aware that some drugs commonly prescribed in the UK may be illegal in certain countries and you should check with that country’s embassy before you travel.
Holiday Vaccinations
When travelling abroad please contact the surgery and submit the form at least 10 weeks before travelling. If vaccinations are required, they should be administered 6-8 weeks before travel, so you are fully vaccinated before you leave to your destination.
The following places are able to offer travel Advice and vaccinations:
Ivybridge Travel Vaccinations & Private GP | CityDoc
Travel vaccinations & health advice service – Boots
We advise you to attend an appointment at least six weeks before you travel, as some vaccinations may not give you full protection until some time after you’ve had them or you will need more than one dose.
The following vaccines are available on NHS prescriptions:
- Hepatitis A
- Typhoid
- Diphtheria
- Tetanus
- Polio
Other vaccinations may be necessary for more exotic or unusual destinations, complex travel itineraries, or long stay vacations and these will be available from private travel clinics – with a charge.
More advice about foreign travel is available on the NHS website and on the Foreign Office website.
Travel insurance
Medical emergencies abroad can be costly to the traveller so it is advisable to explore arranging appropriate cover.