GP Referrals Explained: Routine Referrals and Private Referrals
GP referrals are used when symptoms or test results suggest you need specialist assessment, investigations, or ongoing care beyond what can be safely managed in primary care.
This page explains how GP referrals work, the difference between routine and private referrals, what information is included, and what to expect after a referral is made.
These articles are intended as educational sources, not diagnostic nor taking place of a proper medical assessment. If you need help, please book an appointment with one of our GP’s.
What is a GP referral?
A GP referral is a formal request for assessment by another healthcare service, usually a hospital specialist, clinic, or diagnostic provider.
Referrals are used when:
- symptoms need specialist assessment
- further investigations are required
- a diagnosis needs confirmation
- treatment options fall outside primary care
A referral does not mean a serious diagnosis is confirmed. It means further assessment is appropriate.
Routine GP referrals
Routine referrals are used when symptoms or conditions need specialist input but are not urgent.
Examples include:
- ongoing gastrointestinal symptoms
- persistent joint or musculoskeletal problems
- neurological symptoms without red flags
- non urgent gynaecological or urological concerns
- dermatology problems requiring specialist review
Routine referrals are usually triaged by the receiving service and appointments are arranged based on clinical priority.
What information is included in a GP referral?
A referral usually includes:
- a summary of your symptoms and concerns
- relevant medical history
- examination findings where available
- test results
- medications and allergies
- the reason for referral
This information helps specialists assess urgency and plan appropriate investigations or appointments.
What happens after a routine referral?
After a referral is sent:
- it is reviewed by the receiving service
- urgency is assessed
- appointments or investigations are arranged
- you may be contacted by letter, email, or phone
Timelines vary depending on the specialty, urgency, and local services.
What is a private GP referral?
A private GP referral allows you to access private specialist care outside the NHS.
Private referrals are commonly used when:
- you wish to be seen sooner
- you prefer a specific specialist or clinic
- you are self funding investigations or treatment
- you have private medical insurance
A private referral does not bypass clinical judgement. It is still based on medical appropriateness.
How private GP referrals work
With a private referral:
- a GP assesses your symptoms remotely
- the referral is written if clinically appropriate
- you choose the private provider or specialist
- costs are usually paid by you or your insurer
Private referrals can be open or addressed to a specific consultant, depending on your needs.
Do private referrals replace NHS care?
No. Private referrals do not replace NHS care.
In some cases:
- care continues privately
- results are shared with your NHS GP
- care transitions back to the NHS
- shared care arrangements may be discussed
Your GP can advise on appropriate pathways.
Can referrals be made during a remote GP consultation?
Yes. Many referrals can be initiated following a remote GP consultation.
However, some referrals may require:
- examination
- observations
- additional information
- urgent in person assessment
If this is the case, it will be explained clearly.
What AccessGP can and cannot do
AccessGP provides remote GP consultations only.
AccessGP can:
- assess symptoms remotely where appropriate
- advise whether referral is needed
- issue routine or private referrals when clinically justified
- explain referral pathways and next steps
AccessGP cannot:
- provide in person examinations
- guarantee referral acceptance
- bypass urgent or emergency care pathways
Patient safety always comes first.
When to book a remote GP consultation
Consider booking a GP consultation if:
- you have ongoing or worsening symptoms
- you are unsure whether referral is needed
- you want advice on NHS vs private referral options
- you need a referral letter for a private provider
- you want clarity on next steps
A GP can help guide you through appropriate options.
Related articles
- Consultation types: text-based, telephone, video and face to face
- When you need a face to face GP assessment
- What to expect after a hospital referral or outpatient appointment
Further Reading and Hub Links
Visit our Understanding Your Health hub or browse more health topics in the AccessGP Knowledge Base.
If you would like to discuss whether a referral is appropriate, a GP can help advise on the safest next step.
Last reviewed by Dr Zamiel Hussain, GMC registered GP
Updated: 4 February 2026