Has anyone paid privately to see a rheumatologist?

[40somethingJBJ]

I’ve been in hideous amounts of pain with my joints for a couple of years, on top of a back condition, and have always been fobbed off somewhat by my gp. Back in March/April, I had some bloods taken which showed a very raised white blood cell count and was referred to haematology who took further bloods to rule out any blood or bone marrow disorders, but they suspected, combined with the pain, it might be an indication of rheumatoid arthritis and recommended my gp refer to rheumatology. I’ve rung today to chase up the appointment to be told I’m looking at approximately 8 months from now to be initially seen, as they’re running behind because of Covid.

Meanwhile, I’m in agony. My fingers and toes have become very sore and a bit swollen, my elbows feel warm to the touch and really bloody hurt and I just feel dreadful. I’m exhausted, I’ve been running a low grade fever for several weeks now (it’s not Covid, I’ve checked!), and every joint is painful. I need to see someone and get to the bottom of it as I can’t go on like this.

My dad’s offered to pay to go private so I’m just wondering if anyone has any experience of this and how I’d go about it? Is it a case if once I’m registered with a private consultant I’d have to have all my treatment there, or can they diagnose and then refer back to my gp?

Any experiences welcome! Thanks :)

First, I’m very sorry you are in pain and I hope you get the help you need soon.

I saw a private consultant a few months back who was more than happy to work with my GP to ask for specific blood works and for prescriptions, etc.
I’d originally gone to my GP, but got in touch with my private medical insurance when I was told it’d be at least 3 months for an appointment with a rheumatologist.
After doing a bit of research, I found a consultant, called his secretary and was able to get a zoom appointment for that same evening. After that, we had additional bloods done (via GP - consultant just emailed my consultation notes and the request), followed by imaging (done privately) and another follow up consultation. In the end, I was diagnosed with reactive arthritis which has naturally eased off over the last two months or so. All my notes, etc, were passed on to my GP so that I can work with them going forward.

Thanks for the reply. I think I’m definitely going to look into it; can’t bear the thought of being like this until the middle of next year. How did you find your consultant?

I had a private rheumatologist. He diagnosed me then moved me to his NHS practice because i needed expensive medication.
I saw one at a BMI hospital and everything was done very quickly, ultrasound, MRI etc.

Ah that’s good - BMI hospitals are one of the ones that came up on my search, so good to know they’re recommended.