Wwyd? Fast track nhs referral or private?

[Worriedme55]

I've had a swelling on my neck which is increasing fairly rapidly. It started end Aug/early Sep. Also had a cough that long too. Saw GP last week. Going for bloods to check thyroid, had chest xray last week (no results yet) and was referred for neck ultrasound. But then my surgery said that had been rejected and I need referring to a thyroid specialist for the scan. I'm worried sick and thinking all sorts. I phoned my local private hospital for a quote which was £350. Probably for a Mon appointment next week. I can't really afford it but would find the money.
But if GP is fast tracking me today she says I will get an appointment in 2 weeks.
How likely is that? I don't know what to do. I could pay private then end up with an appointment the next few days. Other issue is private consultant is on holiday after next Monday so if I don't have it done then I will definitely have to wait longer. Thoughts appreciated please.

If the GP is worried, you'll have an appointment within the time frame. The same thing happened at the breast clinic for me - I was seen the week after.

I wouldn't go private for a diagnosis unless I could afford the further tests and treatment privately too. Let's say the scan shows something concerning, the biopsies etc wouldn't take any less time on the NHS at that point.

I’d stick with the nhs. It’s much easier for them and therefore you if all tests and investigations are done together. I get the sense of panic but in reality unless you can afford for all care to be private it won’t help that much.

I hope it goes well for you- just in case it’s helpful my friends DH had a very similar situation and was found to have a parathyroid issue which was treated.

DP recently referred, has had ultrasound and biopsy within 8 days, CT scan booked for day 18.
I agree with pp that tests and investigations are unlikely to be done quicker. Private is great for a quick initial consultation for something you would likely wait several months to be seen for, but the NHS works pretty well for things referred under the two week wait.
I hope all goes well op. I know what a worry it is.

Thank you. I hadn't thought of the wait for further investigations. It does make sense to try and be patient and wait for the NHS.i

As others have said stay with the NHS. I had a similar experience with the breast clinic to a previous poster, I was seen the same week. Good luck

@Worriedme55 hi im in similar sort of position and really worried. How did you get on. I know its been a while for this thread