Referral Letter — Just a Few Clicks Away

Understanding a GP Referral Letter

Navigating the healthcare system can be stressful, particularly when you’re waiting to see a specialist. As a private provider, we offer private specialist referral letters tailored specifically to your clinical concerns. You may need this to avail access to Private Specialist Consultants, via your insurance provider or directly either. This blog will explain what these letters are, what’s included, and how you can use them to facilitate the next steps in your care.

What Is a Private Specialist Referral Letter?

A private specialist referral letter is a detailed document written by a qualified clinician that:

• Summarises your medical concerns in clear, concise language.

• Outlines the clinical reasoning behind recommending further investigations or specialist input.

• Provides professional recommendations for next steps in your diagnosis or treatment.

Unlike generic templates, our letters are personalised to your unique health needs, ensuring that specialists receive all the relevant information at a glance.

What’s Included in Your Referral Letter

When you choose our private service, your referral letter will contain:

1. Clear Summary of Medical Concerns
   A succinct overview of your symptoms, history, and any prior test results.

2. Clinical Reasoning
   Insight into why a referral or additional tests are necessary, supported by evidence and best-practice guidelines.

3. Recommendations for Next Steps
   Practical advice on the investigations, treatments, or specialist consultations that would be most beneficial.

This level of detail helps ensure that specialists can quickly understand your case and plan the most appropriate care pathway.

How to Use Your Private Referral Letter

1. Choose Your Specialist
   Identify the consultant or clinic that best meets your needs (e.g., cardiologist, neurologist).

2. Share the Letter
   Provide a printed or electronic copy at your private consultation. Many private clinics accept letters via secure email or patient portals.

3. Discuss Your Options
   During your appointment, the specialist will review the letter alongside their own assessment, helping to streamline your care.

Important Note on NHS Referrals

While our letters are designed to be comprehensive and clear, we are unable to make direct referrals into the NHS. However, you may choose to share your private referral letter with your NHS GP as a recommendation for consideration. This helps rationalize your case and clinical care needs. Please remember:

• Any subsequent NHS referral or investigations based on our letter are at the discretion of your NHS GP.

• Your GP may request additional information or conduct their own assessment before initiating NHS pathways.

Common Referral Needs

• Specialist consultations (e.g., ENT, cardiologist, or dermatologist)

• Ongoing care and treatment