Last Updated: Monday, 01 September 2025
Private Referral Letters
Patients may request a private referral letter from their GP. However, before doing so, you must have had a recent consultation with your GP to ensure they have sufficient information to complete the referral. A fee of £30.00 is required upon completion of this letter.
Medical Record Summaries
Alternatively, patients can request a brief summary of their medical records free of charge. Depending on the private healthcare provider, this may be sufficient for your referral needs.
Important Considerations
- Finding a Specialist – Patients are responsible for choosing their own private specialist and arranging any appointments. The practice is unable to recommend or refer to specific private providers.
- GP Consultation Requirement – A recent review with your GP is necessary before requesting a private referral to ensure that all relevant clinical details are included.
- Providing Specialist Details – Once you have arranged a private consultation, you may provide us with the specialists details to aid in completing your referral letter, although this is not required.
- Sharing Clinic Letters – Patients are encouraged to share a copy of their private referral clinic letters with their GP surgery to support their medical records and ensure continuity of care.
- Fees – The £30.00 fee covers the administrative costs of preparing a private referral letter. This is a standard charge across most GP surgeries for non-NHS services.
- Tests and Medication – Any tests or medication recommended by a private specialist will need to be arranged privately. NHS GPs are not responsible for organising tests or prescribing medication requested by private consultants.
- GP Discretion – Your GP will determine whether a private referral is clinically appropriate. In some cases, they may advise that NHS pathways are a better option.
Important:Please Note: Private Referrals are Self-Managed
To clarify, patients are responsible for selecting a private specialist and arranging their own appointments. Saxonbrook Medical does not organise these on behalf of patients.
For more information on referrals, visit NHS Referrals Guide