Referral
A GP’s letter naming a specialist, which most policies require before they will pay.
Private medical insurance almost always begins with a GP referral. Some insurers accept an open referral, where the GP names the specialism rather than an individual consultant and the insurer suggests recognised specialists. Others require a named consultant. Either way, the referral is the document that starts the claim, so it is worth checking what form your insurer wants before the appointment is booked.
Where this comes up
Guides that use this term
- What is the NHS 18-week waiting time standard?
- How much does a private MRI scan cost?
- What is NHS patient choice and how do you use it?
- How much does a private ultrasound scan cost?
- How much does a private CT scan cost?
- How much does a private colonoscopy cost?
- How are NHS referral-to-treatment waiting times counted?
- What are your rights while waiting for NHS treatment?
