How would you interpret consultants words?

[StarlightDicKenzie]

'waiting list for lister hospital is 18 weeks so I'll refer you to the hitching private hospital to have surgery in 4 weeks. Is that okay?'

I said yes, thinking his question was regarding the location and since they are both equally a pita I agreed.

I'm not gonna get a bill am I?

Is he referring you through the NHS Choose and Book system? I think that's probably what's happening.

Oh. I have no idea. Does that mean we'll get a bill or not?

And was he being norty since it is HIS private hospital?

I.e could we have chosen a more convenient hospital somewhere else?

I'd say it's one of the NHS schemes, not a private one. But I'd be tempted to ring up and double-check...?

I am 99% sure he means you will be treated in a private hospital, but the NHS will pay for it. If you want to make sure, just phone the hospital where you had your consultation and ask to speak to his secretary.

Also, he can only treat you in a hospital to which he has admitting rights, not just anywhere cos it suits the patient. I would take the chance of going into a private hospital if it is being offered. The surgeon and anaethetist wii be the same as under the NHS, just doing a shift at the private place once a week or so.

You shouldn't be getting any bills. When I've been waiting all day for a bed for a minor operation and then not been admitted, then the hospital always sent me to the very nice private hospital for the operation as a day case. Lovely grub, taxi there and back and operation done by the same consultant. Very nice!
They have probably referred you to the private hospital to save you having to wait so long for your operation. You won't be billed.

You would need to be seen at a hospital he works from, with him being your consultant if you see what I mean! Otherwise maybe you'd need to be re-referred to someone else? Probably best to ring and check, it could be a costly mistake!

You won't be billed, it's to get your op done within an accepted period of time - enjoy the private route, I know the private hosp it's v nice.

Thank you.

It sounds promising. Should have looked a bit grateful then.