Anyone used a private GP?

[mumblechum1]

I haven't been to my GP for 2 years (last time I went I was misdiagnosed by 2 GPs with arthritis when it turned out to be a frozen shoulder so I tend not to bother going now)

I am a bit concerned about a possible melanoma so called the GPs today but can't get an appt until the end of next week and can't make it then so potentially it'll be 2 weeks before I get seen.

Would it be worthwhile seeing a private GP? Any experience/dos and don'ts?

Snot seen a private GP but have seen plenty of private doctors. You might want to consider just how private you want to be...is it just this one thing or do you want a private GP instead of your nhs one?

If it's just for this and you want to be seen quickly I would personally see a private dermatologist. Beware, private investigations are expensive so check first if you can switch back to the nhs for any possible biopsy etc. sometimes this is possible but the referral will be nhs and therefore you will still have to wait the same.

Private gps likewise offer a private package, this might mean having to pay for a private prescription, for instance. On the nhs we pay a standard fee of £7,25ish for any prescription but obviously many meds cost much more.

So just some things to consider. Good luck.

Snot?! I've not.

Thanks Matilda,

I have private medical so have had treatment for various things in the past, but always been referred by a GP. So I'm seeing a private GP on the basis that if it looks iffy, I'll get them to refer me to a dermatologist and use BUPA to pay for any treatment if that makes sense ;-)

Currently wondering whether to buy a false beard or experiment with sideburns to cover my face if I do have to have a bit hacked out....

Can you ring BUPA and ask the best way forward? Might be best to see the private dermatologist then he/she can refer to himself. Do hope it is all ok.