Private treatment usually refers to treatment that is not covered by the NHS such as elective procedures like cosmetic surgery, private dental care, and fertility treatment as well as all the necessary treatments that are provided by the NHS.
You can request private treatment from a consultant or specialist without being referred by your GP however 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.
Guidance is provided below on how to choose a Private Health Care Provider; patients are required to choose their own and provide the details of this provider during their consultation with a GP.
It is patient choice to opt to have private health care however patients need to be aware of the following when considering private health care: