Private GP Referrals
Fast referrals accepted by UK private hospitals and specialists
Book a private GP consultation to assess your symptoms and, where clinically appropriate, receive a referral to a private consultant, hospital, or diagnostic service.
Referrals are written by UK-registered GPs and are accepted by most UK private providers.
What is a private GP referral?
A private GP referral is a formal letter written by a doctor requesting assessment or treatment by a private healthcare provider, such as a consultant, specialist clinic, or diagnostic service.
Private referrals may be used for:
- Specialist consultations
- Diagnostic tests such as scans or investigations
- Ongoing private treatment pathways
- Faster access to specialist opinion
The referral reflects the GP’s clinical assessment and professional judgement at the time of consultation.
Book your online GP appointment
Book your appointment securely.
Same-day, evening, and weekend consultations available.
Can a private GP issue a referral?
Yes. A private GP can issue a referral following a medical consultation. Referrals from AccessGP are suitable for most UK private hospitals, clinics, and diagnostic providers.
Please note:
- Referrals are only issued after a consultation
- We cannot guarantee acceptance by a specific provider although we help understand your concern and find the right specialist for your concerns
Types of private referrals we can provide
Depending on clinical appropriateness, AccessGP may provide referrals for:
- Medical specialties, such as cardiology, dermatology, or gastroenterology
- Imaging and diagnostics, including MRI, CT and ultrasound
- Surgical opinion or specialist assessment
- Allied health services where appropriate
Each referral is assessed individually during your consultation.
What we cannot provide
There are situations where a referral may not be appropriate, including:
- Requests without a GP consultation
- Medico-legal or insurance-related referrals
- Occupational health referrals requested by employers
- Referrals requiring long-term NHS records we do not hold
If a referral is not appropriate, the GP will explain this clearly during your consultation.
Private referrals and clinical judgement
All referrals issued by AccessGP are based on the GP’s clinical assessment, available medical information, and professional judgement.
Related services
FAQs on GP appointments for private medical referrals
Can you provide a private referral without an appointment?
No. Referrals are only issued following a GP consultation and clinical assessment.
Will private hospitals accept a GP referral from AccessGP?
Most UK private providers accept referrals from registered GPs, including private GPs. Acceptance ultimately depends on the provider.
Can I request a referral to a specific specialist?
You may discuss preferences during your consultation. The GP will decide whether a referral is clinically appropriate and how it is worded.
How quickly will I receive my referral?
If clinically appropriate, referrals are usually provided digitally after your consultation.
❓See our general AccessGP FAQ’s here.
Book an online GP appointment
If you need help with a private medical referral or are unsure which specialist you need, speak to a UK-registered GP about your symptoms and next steps.