Private rheumatologist

Thank you so much to everyone who responded to my query about NHS versus private consultations. I am still undecided as to what to do.

[Philip]

Last time I looked at this, it was a situation were as if I had a private diagnoses the NHS ignored because it was private and eventually I had to go through it all over sgain.

[Hidden]

Hi Magnolia25,

I didn't see your initial query but if it helps, I have posted a link to the section on the BMA website about key guidance on ethics. If you scroll down you will find a link to the guide for interface between NHS and private treatment. You may find this helpful reading.

bma.org.uk/practical-suppor...

Regards

Beverley (NRAS Helpline)

[Hidden in reply to Hidden]

Thankyou, I will have a look through this

[Hidden]

Hello, I started seeing my rheumatologist privately for 2 years until I started biologics. Being able to see him easily and starting treatment early were very important to me. After about 3 months, once I was stable on the drugs, my GP took over all my blood tests and drug prescriptions and is very supportive. I am now fully in the NHS system, have failed enbrel but started abatacept. I must say that the NHS rheumatology department here in Bristol is better than brilliant and I know how lucky I am. With hindsight, I would still have gone private in the beginning, purely for peace of mind and starting treatment as soon as possible. My private consultant is still the one I see on the NHS but,

I admit, I see the biologics nurses more often and it is them I contact with any problems. The nurses check the phone helpline answer phone every couple of hours and ring back straightaway. As I said, the NHS unit here is brilliant. Could you check what your local unit is like as some people on here seem to have terrible problems. Whatever you do, don't feel guilty for going private as you are freeing space for someone in the NHS system. Sorry, did not realise what a long post this would be, hope you are not too bored! Xx Virge

[Footdoc]

Hi there

Initially I went private, then after six months I asked to be transferred to the NHS system. That was about 7 years ago, it saved me an 18 month wait to be seen for the initial appointment on the NHS. Best of all I was kept with the same consultant who has been marvellous. Go private for speed in getting a diagnosis and starting treatment, when I discovered the consultant I was seeing would be available on the NHS I asked to remain under her care. I had very quickly built up a rapport with her and trusted her judgement. But do not be afraid to challenge if you feel you need to. It can strengthen the relationship which you need when you have such an insidious disease. Good luck with whatever you do!

Footdoc