Do You Need a GP Referral for Private Treatment in the UK?

If you're thinking about private healthcare, one of the first questions that comes up is:

“Do I need to get a referral from my NHS GP first?”

The answer is simple: no, you don’t.

While referrals are sometimes helpful, they’re not required to access most private consultants in the UK. In fact, more patients are choosing direct booking platforms like Santus to skip delays, take control, and get seen faster.

Here’s everything you need to know.

NHS vs Private Healthcare Referrals – What’s the Difference?

NHS Pathway
✅ You must go through your GP
✅ GP decides if a referral is appropriate
✅ Long wait times (weeks for referral, months for treatment)

Private Pathway
✅ You choose the consultant and book directly
✅ No need for a referral in most cases
✅ Get seen in days, not months

🔍 Only a few insurers or hospitals may require a referral—Santus makes this clear before booking.

When Might a GP Referral Still Be Useful?

Even though it's not required, a GP referral can still help in certain situations:

For insurance claims, if your provider insists on it
If you’re not sure which specialist you need
To bring your NHS history into the consultation

💡 Tip: If you want a second opinion or fast diagnostics, direct booking is usually faster and just as effective.

How to Book Without a GP Referral Using Santus

Search for a consultant by specialty and location
Compare profiles and pricing—see availability upfront
Book online in minutes, without needing to call your GP

✅ Most patients are seen within 3–7 days
✅ You can also book private diagnostics directly, including MRI, CT, or blood tests

What to Expect at Your First Private Appointment

Once you’ve booked:

Bring any relevant test results or notes (optional)
Your consultant will take a full medical history
You’ll receive a diagnosis or next steps on the same day

Follow-up scans or procedures can be booked immediately through Santus

🧾 You’ll pay for your consultation directly and only for what you use—no hidden charges.

Why Patients Choose Direct Booking Over GP Referrals

✅ Faster access – No waiting weeks to get referred
✅ More control – Choose who you see and when
✅ Transparent pricing – Know what you’ll pay before you go

💬 “I avoided a 4-month NHS wait just by booking directly through Santus.” – Julia, Harrogate

Skip the GP delay. Book your private consultation directly with Santus today.