BUPA Physiotherapy Tender Process

[JacobI]

I finally received the letter from Bupa a week ago; was beginning to think that they were quietly keeping some of us on the list, especially those of us who have been registered a long time. I am now drafting a letter to those of my Bupa clients that have come to me on and off for a long time (either for different conditions, or to get 'back on track' for longstanding conditions). Has anyone done this, and any ideas of wording? I gather that Bupa clients are getting a letter from Bupa about the register, and am hoping to see it, so I can respond to what they write. Most of my above client group have already said that they will continue to come to me, either by paying me direct, or some have said they will try insisting on seeing me. The best thing would be of course, if they change their PMI!

[Chartered Physiotherapist]

I have been given my dear john letter from Bupa after over twenty years of treating their patients. My patients who have recently asked Bupa for new authorisation have been told that their treatment is covered until the end of the year.

I wonder if the door has completely closed. Look at Bupa's wording on the initial document they sent:

"Physiotherapists can choose not to bid but at the point at which the new network is launched, they may no longer be eligible to treat Bupa members or invoice Bupa."

Does "may" mean that if you are treating a coporate member who just happens to be a big wig in their company, then they will make an exception?

[JacobI]

I have seen the letter that Bupa are sending their members regarding their 'new out-patient physiotherapy network', and find it downright insulting. "the agreements we have with network physiotherapists ensure that only experienced clinicians treat Bupa members" I have 31 years experience, and it is partly because of my experience that I decided not to tender. Nowhere in the letter does it mention how many providers they have in their network - I assume the number is significantly less than before, and therefore there is less choice. Do the members know this?