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

Introduction

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.

How private GP referrals work

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:

• Private consultants in our trusted network (many based in Oxford and London).
• NHS specialists or local hospital services when appropriate.

For more on how we handle referrals and paperwork, see our referrals page here.

Private GP to specialist referral: what that looks like

When we suggest a private consultant we will:

• Recommend consultants based on clinical need and proven outcomes.
• Explain why that consultant is suitable and the typical timelines.
• Offer to contact the consultant's office directly to arrange appointments.
• Provide you with copies of all referral letters and test results.

We maintain a trusted network of consultants and keep you fully involved in the referral decision every step of the way.

Can a private GP refer to the NHS?

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.

Costs, timelines and choices

Private referrals typically involve:

• Consultation fees for the private specialist.
• Potential diagnostic or treatment costs charged by the private provider.

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.

How Mayfield Clinic coordinates ongoing care

Once a referral is sent, we stay involved. We:

• Share records and test results directly with the specialist.
• Follow up after the specialist appointment to support treatment planning.
• Keep detailed referral records in your patient file to support continuity with your named doctor.

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.

What this means for Huntingdon residents

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.

Patient involvement and consent

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.

How to book — Huntingdon patients

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.

Next steps

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.