The Patient Journey – What to Expect from First Booking to Follow-Up

If you’ve never used private healthcare before, it can be hard to know what to expect.

What happens after you book? How quickly will you be seen? What comes next if you need treatment or scans?

This guide walks you through the full private care journeyfrom first booking to diagnosis, treatment, and aftercare—so you feel confident and in control.

With Santus, the process is simple, transparent, and built around you.

Step 1 – Booking Your Private Appointment
The journey starts when you choose your consultant on Santus.

✅ Filter by location and specialty
✅ No GP referral needed
✅ Book in under 5 minutes with upfront cost visibility

📍 Most patients are seen quickly — much faster than the NHS.

Step 2 – Attending Your First Consultation
Your first consultation is your chance to discuss:

Symptoms or concerns

Any previous NHS notes or test results (if available)

What you’re hoping to achieve (diagnosis, second opinion, treatment plan)

🔍 The consultant may recommend:

Further investigations (e.g. blood tests, MRI, CT)

A diagnosis and treatment options

A referral to another specialist or for surgery

🕐 Appointment time: usually 20–40 minutes (longer than typical NHS appointments)

Step 3 – Diagnostics (If Needed)
If scans or tests are required, you can book them straight away through Santus.

✅ MRI / CT scans
✅ Blood tests / endoscopy
✅ Ultrasound / x-ray

💡 Results are often returned within 24–72 hours, speeding up the process dramatically.

Step 4 – Treatment & Procedures
If treatment is needed:

The consultant will explain your options

You’ll be offered a fixed-price or pay-as-you-go quote

Surgery or treatment can often be arranged within 1–2 weeks

🏥 Many procedures are available at private hospitals near you, including hip/knee replacement, cataract surgery, ADHD assessments, and more.

Step 5 – Aftercare & Follow-Up
Santus supports your care journey beyond the initial appointment.

✅ Book follow-ups with the same consultant easily
✅ Access messages or notes from your appointment
✅ Continue treatment, request prescriptions, or discuss test results

📅 Follow-up appointments are typically booked within 1 week and often include review of test outcomes or next steps in your plan.

How Santus Supports Every Step of the Journey

Santus isn’t just for booking. It’s your full care companion:

✅ Transparent pricing and availability from the start
✅ No waiting list or GP referral required
✅ Easy rebooking and secure communication with your consultant
✅ Self-pay packages and financing support if needed

Take control of your care. Book with Santus and start your private healthcare journey today.