What to expect? Private consultation

[Hol2509]

Hi all, I have finally managed to get myself a private consultation with an endo specialist next Tuesday! My GP has sent a referral letter through with all my history and I've got symptoms and pain diaries etc written up. Is there anything else I need to do as prep for my appointment? Also, am I likely to have a physical examination done? My GP wanted to do another when I saw her last week however she had no time.

Any advice or experiences would be greatly appreciated!!

Hol

[Astro_kat]

Hi Hol, I would say take a pen and note pad to write things down that are being discussed. I had a private consultant appointment a few weeks ago and was absolutely amazed how thorough he was and how much I felt listened to. I really wish I had done it sooner! I made a quick note chronologically of my symptoms and exploratory scans/ procedures etc. That helped as I took a few minutes to outline what had brought be to actually seeking the appointment. I would also think of the key questions you want answering. I basically went for a private appointment as I wanted a second opinion on the NHS consultant I’d seen (this was because it was the 4th consultant I’d seen with no treatment in last 2 years…basically I felt fobbed off and each consultant said my case was complex (endo and bowel issues). I was prepared to go private for a laparoscopy because of the debilitating pain and symptoms because I was told the waiting list for NHS was so long. As a strange twist of fate had it. The day after I saw the private consultant I got a phone call from the NHS to offer me surgery (laparoscopy which I had last week!). Basically this was 6 weeks after seeing the last NHS consultant to getting the surgery). I have a follow up phone call with the consultant this afternoon to get the results/treatment plan. I wish you all the best with your private appointment. I’m sure the consultant will be able to advise as mine did. By the way it was only by going ins this forum that I ended up going privately. Someone advised me and it’s certainly helped me. Good Luck X

[Hol2509 in reply to Astro_kat]

Thanks for the reply, I'm glad it worked out well for you and you managed to get the lap! I was the same, I had never considered private until this site, currently a year and a half down the line of trying to get listened to! Hope everything goes well for you!

[Linley]

Agree 100% with Astro_cat. Fortunately, many years ago when my probs started I had a company private health plan it was the best thing that happened to me. You will be fine and good luck to you in your journey