Can a Private GP Refer Me to a Specialist? Royston Guide

Introduction

Seeing a specialist can feel like navigating a maze. Private GP referral routes often speed things up, give you clearer choice, and keep you fully informed. For many patients from Royston who contact Mayfield Clinic, a private GP referral means faster investigations and direct access to consultant expertise at centres in Cambridge, Oxford and London. Our approach is practical: we explain options, advise on likely wait times, and coordinate the next steps to keep care seamless.

How private GP referrals work

A private GP referral is a formal letter or digital referral created by your GP after assessment. It summarises your symptoms, any tests performed, and why a specialist opinion is recommended. At Mayfield Clinic we follow a clear process when advising Royston patients:

• Clinical review with the same named GP where possible, giving continuity and context.
• Discussion of options — private consultant, NHS referral, or further testing first.
• Preparation of a detailed referral letter and relevant records, including test results and medication history.
• Co-ordination with the chosen specialist and administration of appointments.

Can a private GP refer to an NHS specialist?

Yes. A private GP can refer you to an NHS specialist. We explain the difference: a private referral typically gives faster access to consultant clinics, while an NHS referral goes onto NHS waiting lists. If you want to pursue an NHS route from Royston, your private GP can issue a referral letter addressed to NHS services — useful if you prefer treatment under the NHS or need to use your NHS pathway.

Private GP to specialist referral: what to expect

When we refer you to a private consultant we draw on a trusted network of specialists (predominantly Oxford and London-based consultants), chosen for clinical expertise and patient care. For Royston patients, appointments are usually arranged at our Cambridge clinic or at consultants’ private clinics. The referral typically includes:

• Diagnosis summary and reason for referral
• Copies of relevant test results and imaging
• Medication list and previous treatments
• Clear questions for the consultant to address

"Good referrals are concise, clinically focused and make it simple for the consultant to act. That’s what we send every time."

Costs and choosing between private and NHS

Private referral pathways usually involve consultant fees, clinic fees and any investigations not covered by the NHS. If cost is a concern, we’ll outline likely fees in advance and explain where an NHS referral may be appropriate instead. For patients in Royston who are considering membership, our membership options can help manage costs and provide direct booking benefits — see our membership page for details.

How we keep care coordinated

Mayfield Clinic keeps detailed referral records to support continuity of care. We remain involved after the referral: we receive the consultant’s report, discuss recommended next steps with you, and, where necessary, prescribe treatment or arrange follow-up tests. If you live in Royston and travel to our Cambridge clinic, we make sure your GP holds your full record so nothing is lost between appointments.

Practical steps for Royston patients

Ready to explore a referral? Here’s what to do next:

1. Book an appointment online via the Book now button — members may also book by phone or WhatsApp.
2. Bring any relevant letters, scans or test results to your appointment (or upload them beforehand).
3. We’ll talk through private GP referral options and whether an NHS referral would be better for your situation.
4. If you agree, we’ll prepare and send the referral and help arrange your specialist appointment — often at our Cambridge practice for Royston patients.

Useful links and further information

Learn more about how to access our services: How to access our GP services. For specifics on our referrals process see How we make referrals. If you’re thinking about membership benefits and booking options, visit Membership. For information about private prescriptions and ongoing care see Prescriptions and to meet our clinicians visit Our team.

If you’re in Royston and prefer local information, see our Royston page here. Appointments for Royston patients are typically delivered from our Cambridge clinic — find details at our Cambridge location page Cambridge. The journey from Royston to Cambridge is straightforward, and many patients find the shorter wait times and continuity with a named GP worth the trip.

Next step

For fast, clear referral advice from a private GP who knows the Royston area, book online via the Book now button. We’ll assess your needs, discuss options and, where needed, organise prompt referral to the right specialist.