Patients can choose to access private healthcare alongside NHS services. In many cases, you do not need a referral from your GP to arrange a private appointment, although some private consultants, clinics and medical insurance providers may require one.

Requesting a Private Referral

If a referral letter is required, please submit an appoinment request including as much detail as possible.

If your GP agrees that a referral is appropriate, they can provide a referral letter addressed to the specialist, clinic or healthcare provider of your choice.

What Information Will Be Included?

A referral letter may include:

• Relevant medical history
• Current medications
• Previous investigations or treatments
• The reason for referral
• Any relevant clinical information to support your care

Choosing a Private Provider

Patients are free to choose their own private consultant or healthcare provider. If you are unsure which specialist you require, your GP may be able to advise on the most appropriate specialty, but cannot recommend specific private providers.

Investigations and Follow-Up Care

Once you are under the care of a private consultant, they are responsible for:

• Arranging any tests or investigations they feel are necessary
• Discussing results with you
• Prescribing any medication required as part of your treatment
• Arranging follow-up appointments

Further information about prescriptions, blood tests and investigations requested by private clinicians can be found in our Private Prescribing and Tests Policy.

When We May Be Unable to Provide a Referral

There are some circumstances where we may be unable to provide a referral letter. For example:

• Requests relating solely to cosmetic procedures
• Requests that are not clinically appropriate
• Situations where insufficient information is available to support a referral