Having supported patients alongside the NHS since 1998, we often hear concerns and questions about how to use our services and other private healthcare while also continuing to use the NHS.

We understand why this may be confusing. Questions like “Will I lose my NHS registration?” “Will this upset my NHS GP?” “What happens if I need a referral?” have often kept people away from the convenience of private healthcare unnecessarily.

Many people assume they must choose between the NHS and private healthcare. In reality, most patients use a combination of both. Private healthcare can provide faster access to consultations, investigations and treatment, while the NHS remains an essential source of ongoing care, emergency services and specialist treatment.

Can You Use Private Healthcare & the NHS at the Same Time?

Yes. Choosing private healthcare does not affect your right to NHS care. You can remain registered with your NHS GP while also seeing private doctors, specialists or therapists and undergoing private tests or treatment. There is no limit to how much private healthcare you utilise.

If you really think about it, utilising private healthcare lifts some burden from an overworked NHS system, using your health insurance or paying directly means one less person on an NHS waiting list.

So why use private healthcare at all?

There are multiple benefits to private healthcare:

• Fast GP or specialist appointments – we see you same-day and most private specialists can be accessed within 48 hours.
• Quicker access to diagnostic tests – results from just 4 hours, fast imaging, same-day appointments
• Second opinions – longer appointment times resulting in more in-depth diagnosis and assessment
• Choice of consultant or hospital – choice in your care is vital
• Greater flexibility over appointment times – work around you and your work schedule
• Avoiding long waiting lists for non-urgent care – resolve the issue quickly and improve quality of life

Your NHS GP remains an important part of your healthcare journey and can provide access to NHS referrals, screening programmes, vaccinations, chronic disease management and community services. It’s always recommended to stay connected with your NHS GP and keep them informed of any treatment you are receiving privately, especially medications and prescriptions.

Understanding Referrals

NHS referrals and private referrals are separate pathways. A private consultation does not automatically move you up an NHS waiting list. However, private specialists can often provide valuable assessments, diagnoses and recommendations that can be shared with your NHS GP.

For example, you can see a private GP, have private testing, and use that information to speak to your NHS GP about your future care.

Private referrals are more straightforward – you see one of our GPs, and we refer you directly to the specialist we recommend or of your choice. You can utilise your private health insurance at this time, or directly with us if you are internationally insured.

What Happens After Your Private Appointment?

Choosing private healthcare doesn’t prevent you from accessing NHS services in the future. Many patients have private consultations or investigations before continuing their care through the NHS. If you choose this route, standard NHS referral processes and waiting times will still apply.

To ensure continuity of care, we recommend that clinic letters, reports and investigation results are shared with your NHS GP and any other healthcare professionals involved in your treatment. With your consent, we can communicate directly with your NHS GP on your behalf.

If you’re prescribed medication privately, you’ll usually need to pay for a private prescription. In some cases, your NHS GP may agree to continue prescribing medication recommended by a private specialist, but this isn’t guaranteed and depends on local NHS policies and the GP’s clinical judgement.

Using NHS-Funded Treatment in Private Hospitals

Some private hospitals provide NHS-funded care through NHS contracts. Patients may be able to choose these providers through NHS referral pathways while still receiving treatment free of charge.

Private healthcare and the NHS are not competing systems. For many patients, they work best together. Private care can provide rapid access to consultations, diagnostics and specialist advice, while the NHS continues to provide comprehensive long-term and emergency care. Understanding how both systems interact allows you to make informed decisions and access the right care at the right time.

Our team is here to explain anything you need, just give us a call, and we’d be happy to help you navigate your journey.