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Public and patient information
The BMA has a small Public Information Unit, staffed by information officers, which advises the public on BMA policy and other related health issues. We deal with enquiries by phone, email or letter. You can contact us via our switchboard on Tel (020) 7387 4499.
We are unable to advise individuals about treatment for specific medical conditions, but can usually direct those that use our service to alternative sources of information or help.
We attempt to respond to most written enquiries within two working weeks, but, where we need to consult with other BMA departments, or at particularly busy times, it may take longer to process and respond to enquiries.
The Patients and Public section of our website, launched in 2003, aims to address the health questions that we are most frequently asked by the public, patients and other health organisations. It is updated at least twice a year, and sometimes more frequently.
We hope that you find the Patients and Public section of the BMA website a useful resource.
A-Z of common medical queries and useful websites
This list has been compiled to reflect the health questions most frequently put to the BMA.Checking that a doctor is registered to practise in the UK
This document gives information about the registration of doctors in the UKClinical trials in the UK
Sources of information on clinical trials in the United KingdomDoctors’ training and qualifications
Doctors' training and common abbreviations of doctors' qualifications.Finding a self-help group or patient organisation
This section provides information on how to access self-help groups and patient organisations.How to raise concerns about your care
Information and advice on raising concerns about your care.Information about local GP services
This information is about registering with a GP practice (covering England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland); about the new GP contract and about making the best use of local GP services.NHS hospital treatment and information about specialists
Some useful information regarding hospital treatment and sources of information on specialists.Occupational health - some common questions answered
These pages include information on occupational health and sickness certification for both employers and employees.Why do GPs sometimes charge fees? Your questions answered
The National Health Service provides most health care to most people free of charge, but there are exceptionsYour medicines - useful sources of information
Useful sources of information about medicines
Patient Liaison Group
- Provides the BMA with an informed patient view on healthcare and works to ensure that the patient voice is represented on many of the issues being addressed.
Read more here
BestTreatments
This website helps patients and doctors use up-to-date medical research, to decide together which treatments are best.Read more here
Electronic patient records
Contrary to reports in the national media the BMA has not produced a pro forma letter for patients wishing to opt out of the national electronic patient record database.Read more here
Public and patient involvement in the NHS
A paper investigating the concept of public and patient involvement - patients will have less influence over the running of the NHS in England after April 2008.Read more here