Referrals?

Can you self refer to any Endochrinologists in U.K, NHS or private?

[helvella Administrator Thyroid UK]

As I understand it, the rules governing this issue are largely down to professional ethics and conduct. I can quote from the NHS web:

"Most specialists (including those offering private treatment) will only see a patient if they've been referred by their GP."

nhs.uk/chq/Pages/892.aspx?C...

But that clearly leaves open the possibility of a consultant accepting a self-referral.

Has your GP actually refused to do a referral to a private consultant? It seems to me quite likely that he would do that even if unwilling to do so on the NHS.

All the best

Rod

[Shaz]

Hi Krankybird,

In the NHS Its also/mainly about money im afraid!! The referral definately has to come from a clinician, not just to determine your status and categorise you from a profesional point of view, but because the Trust you are being referred to has to get paid for seeing you initially in clinic, but it is your right to request a specialist's opinion and your GP is ethically obliged to respect that.

Specialists shouldnt really accept patients without referrals - its the policy im afraid, and if they do its probably a 'scratch my back' scenario.

Most private consultants also require referrals for a clinical prognosis so that they can determine your status professionally, but your GP does not have the right to refuse you a referral letter, as its deemed as being in your best interests, whether he believes that your ill or not.

If you are being denied a referral you can make a complaint to the surgery manager.

Hope this helps. Take care

Sharon