Can a Private GP Refer Me to a Specialist? – Guide for Ely Patients

Introduction

Nearly one in three people report long waits for specialist appointments; a private referral can change that. If you live in Ely and are wondering whether a private GP can refer you to a specialist — and how that process works — this guide gives clear, practical answers. Expect step-by-step detail, local context, and exactly what will happen if your care is arranged through our Cambridge practice.

Can a private GP refer me to a specialist?

Yes. A private GP at Mayfield Clinic can issue a private referral to a specialist consultant, and we can also support onward referral into NHS services when appropriate. Our GPs write thorough, evidence-based referral letters and choose suggested consultants from our trusted network, largely based in Oxford and London, selected for their expertise and care quality.

How private referrals work at Mayfield Clinic

When you see a private GP, here’s what typically happens:

• The GP assesses your symptoms and medical history, and discusses possible referral options with you.
• If a referral is needed, your GP prepares a detailed referral letter that includes test results, treatment history, and the clinical reasoning for the referral.
• You are offered a choice of private consultants and, if appropriate, routes into NHS care. We explain the benefits, likely waiting times, and any likely costs.
• We send the referral and coordinate appointments, keeping full records so your named GP remains informed.

For an outline of our referral procedure, see our referrals page: How we make referrals.

Can a private GP refer to the NHS?

Yes. Private GPs can refer patients to NHS consultants. The referral pathway differs from private-to-private referral: NHS trusts have their own triage and acceptance criteria, and waiting times vary. If your GP recommends NHS referral, we will explain what to expect and help you navigate local services. For Ely residents this often means being assessed and referred with care navigation support from our Cambridge clinic: Mayfield Clinic Cambridge.

Choosing the right specialist — private consultant or NHS?

Deciding between a private consultant and an NHS route depends on urgency, personal preference, and cost. At Mayfield Clinic we:

• Discuss advantages and limitations of private versus NHS care.
• Recommend consultants from our network (mostly Oxford and London-based) when private care is appropriate.
• Ensure your named GP stays involved, so care is continuous and coordinated.

Find out more about our clinicians on the team page: Meet our clinicians.

"Our referrals are written with clarity and clinical rigour so specialists receive all the information they need to act quickly."

What happens after we make a referral?

After your referral is sent we:

• Confirm receipt with you and the specialist team.
• Share any results or correspondence with you and keep them on file for continuity.
• If the referral is to an NHS service, we advise on local waiting times and follow up to support ongoing care.

If tests or private prescriptions are required before or after specialist review, we manage these efficiently — see our prescriptions page for private prescribing details: Private prescriptions.

Why Ely patients choose Mayfield Clinic

Ely residents value fast access and continuity. Although we treat patients from Ely, consultations and referrals are delivered from our Cambridge practice, a short drive away. Many patients from Ely appreciate that they can see the same named GP at each visit, helping to maintain continuity of care — a real advantage when navigating specialist pathways.

Local note: Ely’s community hospitals and GP surgeries are excellent, but some patients prefer the speed and personalised approach of a private referral. We routinely help Ely patients find the right consultant or NHS route and accompany them through the process.

Practical points for Ely patients

• All appointments are booked online via the Book now button on our website. If you are a Mayfield Clinic member, you may book directly by phone or WhatsApp — see membership options here: Membership.
• We keep detailed referral records to support continuity with your named GP.
• If travel to Cambridge is a concern, we will discuss virtual consultation options where clinically appropriate.

How to start

Book an appointment via the Book now button. One of our GPs will assess your needs, explain how private GP referrals work, and offer clear options tailored to you as an Ely patient. If you want to understand membership benefits before booking, visit our access page: How to access our GP services.

If you have questions about private doctor referrals in the UK or wish to discuss a specific specialist, contact us through the website or check our team page to see which clinician you'd like to meet: Our team.