Understanding the cost of private gynaecology care in the UK
Written by:
Obstetrician - gynaecologist
Published: 22/08/2023
Edited by: Conor Dunworth
When it comes to private gynaecology care, there are many different options of hospitals and consultants. However, due to the abundance of options, the intricacies of charges and insurances can be perplexing when considering a visit to a gynaecologist. In his latest online article, consultant gynaecologist Mr Osama Naji gives a quick guide on how to navigate the private gynaecology landscape.
Determining how much private gynaecological visits cost
The cost of an initial consultation with a private gynaecologist averages between £200 and £400. It's important to note that there's no universal pricing structure for private gynaecology care. Differences in price stem from factors such as geographical location, the professional background of the consultant, and their specific field of expertise. For a precise cost estimate, referring to our Fees and Insurance information is recommended. To assist in your financial planning, we've outlined broader expenses linked to private treatment, regardless of the care provider you choose.
Balancing costs: insurance vs. self-payment
Private gynaecological care expenses are typically covered either by private medical insurance or self-payment. Most private gynaecologists adhere to consultation fees dictated by recognised health insurance providers such as Aviva, Bupa, AXA, or Vitality. Consultants can directly bill these companies if the patient's coverage is valid, without triggering any insurance policy excess.
Opting for self-payment introduces variability in consultant fees, as highlighted earlier. To ascertain the exact consultation cost, it is advised to confirm it with your chosen consultant before your appointment. If you possess health insurance, it's prudent to verify if your policy encompasses the chosen consultant and whether they conform to the fee-assured system.
Additional costs for diagnostic tests and scans
After the consultation, your gynaecologist might recommend diagnostic tests or scans, such as ultrasound, CT, MRI scans, or blood tests, contingent upon your symptoms. The selection of tests is predicated on your complaints. The expense involved depends on the test or scan type and the chosen diagnostic centre. While most consultants can provide an approximate cost for these tests, it's suggested, especially if you're self-funding, to inquire about the projected expenses during your clinic appointments.
Similar to consultations, if you opt not to pay for your care directly, it's advisable to confirm which tests and scans are included in your insurance policy.
In the event that diagnostic tests or scans indicate the need for treatment, the expense will differ based on your hospital or clinic choice and the specific treatment involved. If you're considering self-payment for your treatment, it's recommended to inquire about fees directly from the hospital or clinic you're utilizsing.
In the realm of private gynaecology care, understanding the financial aspects is integral to informed decision-making. The variance in costs based on factors like insurance coverage and test choices underscores the necessity of proactive inquiries for a smoother healthcare journey.
Mr Osama Naji is a leading consultant gynaecologist based in London. If you would like to book a consultation with Mr Osama Naji, you can do so today via his Top Doctors profile.