Many patients choose private care for speed and continuity. Patients who come from Huntingdon often tell us the biggest benefit is seeing the same named doctor, quickly. At Mayfield Clinic we commonly secure specialist appointments in days to a few weeks rather than months, depending on clinical need. This article explains exactly how a private GP referral works, when we refer to NHS services, and what to expect when you live in Huntingdon but will be seen at our Cambridge practice.
A private GP referral starts with a consultation. We take a full clinical history, perform any necessary examinations and investigations, and decide whether specialist input is needed. If it is, we create a clear, detailed referral letter and discuss your options with you.
We make referrals to:
For more on how we handle referrals and paperwork, see our referrals page here.
When we suggest a private consultant we will:
We maintain a trusted network of consultants and keep you fully involved in the referral decision every step of the way.
Yes. A private GP can write a formal referral to an NHS specialist or hospital. That referral becomes part of your NHS record if the hospital accepts it. It’s important to note that a private referral does not automatically shorten NHS waiting times — the NHS prioritises based on clinical need and current waiting lists.
If you live in Huntingdon and prefer to remain on an NHS pathway, we will prepare the referral thoughtfully and send it where you choose. We’ll also explain the likely wait and alternative private options if speed is important to you.
Private referrals typically involve:
Timelines vary. Many private appointments are available within days to a few weeks. NHS waits can be longer. We always discuss estimated timelines and likely costs before a referral is made so you can decide which route suits you.
For membership details and booking options that may reduce costs and speed access, see our membership page here.
Once a referral is sent, we stay involved. We:
We also manage private prescriptions where needed; see our prescribing policy here. If you want to meet our clinicians before deciding, visit our team page here.
If you are reading this in Huntingdon: we welcome you. Our clinical services for Huntingdon patients are delivered from our Cambridge practice — typically about a 25-minute drive — and you can find directions and details on our Cambridge location page here. We also have local information for Huntingdon on our nearby locations page here.
Practical tip: if you travel from Huntingdon, early morning or late afternoon appointments can avoid market traffic near the town centre. Many Huntingdon patients combine clinic visits with other errands in Cambridge, where consultants in our network are easily accessible.
We involve you in every decision. You choose whether the referral goes to a private consultant or onto an NHS pathway. We explain expected outcomes, likely timelines, and costs. We never share your information with a specialist without explicit consent.
All appointments should be booked online via the Book now button on our site. If you are a member, you can book directly by phone or via WhatsApp — membership often gives faster access to your named GP and streamlined referrals. For details on accessing our services, see How to access our GP services.
If you live in Huntingdon and want a private GP referral that’s fast, thorough and keeps you at the centre of decisions, book an appointment online. We’ll assess, discuss options, and if needed, refer you to an appropriate private consultant or NHS specialist and manage the process on your behalf.
Yes. A private GP can refer you to an NHS specialist by creating a formal referral letter to the relevant NHS trust or clinic. The NHS will accept and triage the referral according to clinical priority; this may not shorten NHS waiting times. If you prefer a private consultant, we can instead arrange a private GP to specialist referral directly and often secure appointments faster. For Huntingdon patients we make either type of referral and support the process from our Cambridge practice.
Costs vary depending on whether you choose a private consultant or remain on an NHS pathway. Private appointments, specialist fees and investigations are charged by the private provider; NHS care is funded by the NHS but may involve waiting times. We will explain likely costs, timelines and options before making any private doctor referral in the UK. Huntingdon patients who are members may benefit from faster access and simpler booking — see our membership page for details.
Turnaround depends on the route. Private referrals can often lead to appointments within days to a few weeks. NHS referrals depend on local waiting lists. We coordinate referrals, forward records and follow up after specialist visits to ensure continuity of care for Huntingdon patients seen at our Cambridge practice.
Become a Mayfield Clinic member and get direct access to experienced general practitioners
3rd Floor Mayfield House
256 Banbury Road
Oxford
OX2 7DE
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