Information about Private Referrals
If a patient has chosen to pay for private healthcare because
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- a) their treatment is not available on the NHS or
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- b) they do not wish to be treated on the NHS
They are responsible for paying for all costs, including tests, and the private provider is responsible for managing every aspect of their healthcare (unless the patient chooses to transfer back to the NHS at a later date to continue treatment).
For that reason, private providers should not be asking GPs to arrange any tests that they deem necessary, and intend to use, to make a diagnosis and recommend a course of treatment with.
It is the private provider’s responsibility to arrange tests for patients whose care they are managing, and the patient’s responsibility to pay for them.
Do I need a GP referral for private treatment?
No. You can get private treatment from a consultant or specialist without being referred by your GP.
But the British Medical Association (BMA) believes it's best practice for patients to be referred for specialist treatment by their GP because they know your medical history and can advise you if a referral is necessary.
A referral is also needed by many private practitioners and private medical insurance policies. If you have private medical insurance, ask your insurer if they need a referral.
Getting a referral from your GP
It's best to see your GP first if you're unwell or have symptoms. Talk to them about whether you might need a specialist assessment or treatment.
If your GP thinks you need to see a specialist and you want to pay for it privately, they can write a letter of referral to a private consultant or specialist explaining your condition and your medical history.
Your GP will only refer you to a specialist if they believe that specialist assessment or treatment is necessary. If they do not think it is, they do not have to refer you – either privately or on the NHS.
If you want to see a private specialist, you're still advised to get a letter of referral from your GP. This is usually discussed following a consultation with your GP.
Whether you see a private specialist, with or without a GP referral, or are referred to an NHS specialist, your GP is not obliged to accept the specialist's recommendations.
