Shared Care Agreement Policy

A Shared Care Agreement (SCA) is an arrangement where a specialist starts and oversees treatment, and the GP may agree to take on some prescribing and monitoring responsibilities once the patient is stable and appropriate support is in place. These agreements are designed to ensure patients receive safe, high-quality care with clear responsibilities between specialist services, the GP practice and the patient.

Please note that GPs are not obliged to enter into Shared Care Agreements and each request is considered individually. Northgate Village Surgery will only accept shared care where it is clinically appropriate, safe to do so, and supported by relevant NHS guidance, local formulary recommendations and specialist input. In some circumstances, including many arrangements initiated by private providers, prescribing may remain the responsibility of the specialist service. 

To learn more about our approach to Shared Care Agreements, including our policies on ADHD, gender-affirming hormone therapy, rheumatology medications and other specialist treatments, please read our full policy below.

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Published on 29 September 2026