Why my GP is reluctant to refer me to a PRIVATE doctor?

QQQ

I can understand when GPs are trying to save NHS money talking nonsense to their patients instead of sending them for a specialist treatment. But why they do not want to refer patients to a private BUPA doctor when this would not cost NHS anything?

Oldernotwiser

S/he probably doesn't agree with your trying to queue jump. If that's the case, I'd change GPs.

paddedjohn

Who pays BUPA?

QQQ

paddedjohn wrote: »

Who pays BUPA?

My employer does.

QQQ

Oldernotwiser wrote: »

S/he probably doesn't agree with your trying to queue jump. If that's the case, I'd change GPs.

Why do you say I jump a queue? There is no any queue since I don't want to be treated by NHS.

paddedjohn

if your company pays for a private service i.e BUPA then why do you need a recommendation? when i had an accident my insurance co sent me to private hospital without me seeing my doc first

QQQ

paddedjohn wrote: »

if your company pays for a private service i.e BUPA then why do you need a recommendation? when i had an accident my insurance co sent me to private hospital without me seeing my doc first

The thing is that BUPA requires to get a referral from GP first. This is probably the way to save their money.

vicki+1

maybe your gp genuinly does not think a refferral is in your best interests, if you really want a referral, see a different gp till you get one who will refer you, if you go often enoughthey will soon get fed up of you

fiscalfreckles

What reason has your GP given?
They may feel its unnecessary, but if you really disagree, simply see another doctor.

nettttie

I agree maybe your gp thinks it's a problem which should be dealt with in primary care, however, they can't refuse to refer you. you are entitled to request a 2nd opinion, which your gp would obviously put this in your letter

pookienoodle

Is it a particular hospital/consultant that your G.P will not refer you to?
Is he willing to refer you to the NHS equvilent?
I would say that either he feels you don't need a referal or that the person you would be refered to at BUPA would not be the best person to see.