I look after patients in the NHS as well a privately, and as time has gone by I have noticed many more patients are asking about private care and whether they should consult with me through thre NHS or Privately.
There are two ways of being seen privately. Firstly you may have your own family health insurance, or secondly you may decide to pay to be privately looked after, in which case you may be surprised at how affordable private care actually is.
What are the advantages of being seen privately?
There are many advantages to being looked after privately. The first is that you get to be seen without delay – I can usually see patients within the week and sometimes the same day if required. As we all know the NHS is under tremendous pressure and it can take many weeks for a routine NHS appointment date.
Secondly you get to see the consultant of your choice: Almost all ENT surgeons are able to investigate and treat general ear, nose and throat problems but some have more experience than others, and expertise in treating different conditions. And of course if you are worried about the possibility of a particular condition it makes sense to be seen by an acknowledged expert in that condition from the very begninning.
Thirdly any treatment you may require happens without delay and at a timetable to suit you too.
In the NHS you will not be able to choose who you are seen by. Also you are likely to be seen by a doctor in training (supervised by a consultant of course). Because of the turnover of doctors it is often the case that you will see different doctors at each hospital visit and this is something many patients are uncomfortable with.
Other reasons patients prefer private care include:
- The consultation with your doctor will not be rushed
- Your doctor will have the time to fully assess your needs, explain your diagnosis and your options for treatment, and answer all your questions in a relaxed atmosphere and in a comfortable environment
- You will receive a detailed and confidential report following your consultation so that you can review the information provided and have the opportunity to ask further questions via email or at a follow up consultation.
- Any letter sent to your GP at your request will also be copied to you
- Patient care is frequently a team effort and your doctor will be assisted by the staff he has hand picked himself
- Your care will be undertaken at a comfortable, clean dedicated medical facility with a welcoming friendly atmosphere
- Your follow up appointments will arranged at times to suit your own convenience
In the end it is a matter of personal choice. If you have your own health insurance it makes sense to use it, of course.
And if you are willing to self-pay you may be pleasantly surprised how affordable it is.
Dealing with your Insurance Company
Most medical Insurers request a referral from your GP or other specialist before agreeing to cover the costs of private treatment. Please contact them prior to your first appointment to ensure they will authorise your claim. They will provide you with a pre-authorisation number for your consultation and treatment.
If you have any queries please contact my secretary:
Miss. Marydhiya Joseph
Tel: (07518) 530 406
e-mail: marydhiya.joseph@nhs.net