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Can a Private GP Refer Me to a Specialist? Answers for Dorking Patients

Private GP

28/08/2025 by Dr Amanda Northridge

Can a Private GP Refer Me to a Specialist?

Short answer: yes. A private GP can arrange referrals to both private consultants and, in many cases, support a route into NHS care. At Mayfield Clinic we make referrals clear, practical and patient-led — especially for people searching for private GP referral options from Dorking. If you find us in Dorking, we’ll usually see you at our nearby Reigate practice (around a 20-minute drive), where we coordinate the next steps with the chosen specialist.

How private referrals work — the first steps

Your private GP appointment starts with a focused assessment. We clarify symptoms, previous investigations and your priorities — for example, speed of access, choice of consultant, or NHS versus private funding. We then discuss referral options, prepare a detailed referral letter and agree a plan with you. Full transparency and involvement are central: you decide which route to take.

Private consultant referrals vs NHS referrals

Private GP to specialist referral: we can refer directly to trusted private consultants (many in Oxford and London) for rapid access. You can choose a consultant from our network or ask for recommendations based on expertise and outcomes.

Can a private GP refer to NHS? We can prepare an NHS-style referral letter and liaise with your NHS providers. Some NHS trusts require the patient’s registered NHS GP to place the formal referral; in such cases we work with you and your NHS practice to ensure the necessary documentation is provided. Our referrals are detailed, evidence-based and structured to make any onward referral as smooth as possible.

What’s in a Mayfield Clinic referral?

Our referral letters include relevant clinical history, examination findings, test results and the clinical question for the specialist. We attach copies of any imaging or blood tests and provide clear contact details so the specialist or NHS team can ask questions. We keep a full copy on file to support continuity of care.

We aim to reduce delays and remove guesswork. A well-prepared referral speeds diagnosis and ensures the specialist has the information they need from day one.

Choosing the right consultant

We maintain a trusted network of private consultants — largely based in Oxford and London — selected for clinical expertise and quality of care. For patients in Dorking we routinely recommend specialists who offer timely clinics and good communication, so follow-up is straightforward. If you have private insurance, we will help ensure the consultant is recognised by your insurer.

Costs, insurance and timelines

Private referrals typically offer faster appointment times (often days to weeks) compared with sometimes lengthy NHS waits. Costs vary depending on the consultant, investigations and any procedures. If you have private medical insurance we’ll check cover and codes in advance. If you prefer NHS care, we’ll explain potential waiting times and how we can support a prompt NHS referral.

After the referral — coordination and follow-up

We don’t finish at the referral letter. Our GPs coordinate appointments where required, share records with the specialist (with your permission) and arrange prompt follow-up with you. If further tests or treatments are recommended, we help you understand the options and keep everything on a single record for continuity.

What this means for Dorking patients

If you live in Dorking and are searching for a private doctor referral UK options, Mayfield Clinic is set up to make the process straightforward. You can read more about our local presence on our Dorking page: Mayfield Clinic — Dorking. Appointments for Dorking patients are carried out at our Reigate practice (Mayfield Clinic — Reigate), which is convenient by road or rail from Dorking and often quicker than waiting for an NHS slot.

Practical tips for a smooth referral

How we support repeat continuity

Mayfield Clinic emphasises regular access to the same named doctor where possible. That means the GP who refers you often stays involved in follow-up, ensuring consistent, coordinated care rather than fragmented hand-offs.

Useful links and next steps

For practical information about our services and how to access them, see our guide on accessing Mayfield Clinic services. To learn about membership and booking options, read Is Mayfield Clinic membership right for you?. For more about our referral process see How we make referrals. We also explain private prescriptions here: Private prescriptions, and you can meet our team here.

Ready to book?

All appointments are booked online via the Book now button on our website. Members can book directly by phone or via WhatsApp. If you’re in Dorking and want a private GP referral to a specialist, click Book now and choose Reigate as your clinic. We’ll take care of the rest.

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Frequently asked questions

Can a private GP refer me to an NHS specialist from Dorking?

Yes. A private GP can refer you to a private specialist directly and can prepare a referral letter for NHS care. Some NHS trusts may ask for a formal referral from your registered NHS GP; where necessary we work with you and your NHS practice to ensure the documentation is provided. For Dorking patients we usually see you at our Reigate clinic and will coordinate the referral from there.

Will a private GP referral get me seen faster than the NHS if I live in Dorking?

Times vary, but private GP referrals typically secure specialist appointments sooner than NHS routes — often in days or weeks rather than months. We’ll discuss expected timelines for private consultant clinics and NHS waits at your consultation and help you choose the fastest and most appropriate option for your clinical needs in the Dorking area.

How much does a private GP to specialist referral cost for Dorking residents?

Costs depend on whether you choose a private consultant or an NHS route, and whether you have private medical insurance. We’ll check insurer panels and authorisation where needed, outline likely fees, and explain what’s covered. For patients in Dorking we also explain travel and appointment logistics to our Reigate practice when arranging private doctor referrals in the UK.

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