What to expect

Using your private medical insurance

How private cover works for your appointment, why pre-authorisation matters, and what fee assured means for you

If you have private medical insurance, it can usually be used towards the cost of your appointment and investigations. Understanding a few basics beforehand helps everything go smoothly and avoids surprises. The details vary between insurers and policies, so it is always worth checking your own cover.

Written for patients and reviewed by Dr Liubov Borukhson, Consultant Rheumatologist (GMC 7021928).

Before your appointment

A few simple steps make using your insurance straightforward:

  • Check that your policy covers outpatient consultations and investigations
  • Contact your insurer to obtain a pre-authorisation code before your appointment
  • Have your membership and authorisation details ready when you book
  • Ask your insurer whether you need a GP referral, as some policies require one

What fee assured means

Dr Borukhson is fee assured with the insurers she works with. In practice this means her fees are recognised by those insurers, so for eligible appointments there is generally no shortfall for you to top up, provided your policy covers the treatment and you have the necessary authorisation.

You can see the insurers she works with, along with self-pay fees, on the fees page.

If you are paying for yourself

You do not need insurance to be seen. Self-pay appointments are welcome, and the fees are set out clearly on the fees page so you know what to expect. Private appointments, whether insured or self-pay, are arranged through the practice.

Ready to arrange your appointment?

Whether using insurance or paying for yourself, appointments are arranged through the practice. Obtaining any pre-authorisation in advance helps things run smoothly

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