Private GP & specialist referrals in Preston
Need a private GP referral to see a specialist? Following a thorough assessment, Dr Faizal Secretary can provide referral letters where clinically appropriate — helping you access the most suitable consultant, scan or service. In person, by telephone or by video, with no NHS GP registration required.
GMC 7606534 In person, phone or video No NHS registration needed Referral letter included where appropriate
Whether you need further investigations, a second opinion or specialist treatment, every referral is based on your individual clinical assessment — so you're directed to the most appropriate specialist for your needs, not a one-size-fits-all pathway.
Reviewed by Dr Faizal Secretary MRCGP · GMC 7606534
When might you need a specialist referral?
Sometimes a GP consultation alone isn't enough to fully assess or manage a health concern. A referral can provide further investigations, expert advice or treatment tailored to your condition — assessed by the most suitable healthcare professional.
Persistent or Unexplained Symptoms
Ongoing symptoms that haven't improved or don't yet have a clear diagnosis may need assessment by a specialist.
Long-Term Health Conditions
Some long-term conditions require ongoing care from hospital consultants or specialist teams. A referral helps ensure you receive the most appropriate treatment and follow-up.
Further Investigations
Your symptoms may indicate that additional tests — such as an MRI scan, CT scan, ultrasound, endoscopy or specialist blood tests — are needed before a diagnosis can be confirmed.
A Second Opinion
If you'd like another expert opinion about your diagnosis, treatment options or ongoing symptoms, a referral to an appropriate specialist can help you make informed decisions.
Private Specialist Treatment
Many patients want quicker access to specialist consultations, or greater flexibility over where they are seen. Where appropriate, Dr Secretary can refer you to a private consultant or specialist service.
What can a private GP refer you for?
Following your consultation, Dr Secretary can arrange referrals to a wide range of specialists, diagnostic services and healthcare professionals where clinically appropriate. The type of referral depends on your symptoms, medical history, examination findings and the care most suitable for you.
Specialists
- Cardiology
- Dermatology
- ENT
- Gastroenterology
- Neurology
- Orthopaedics
- Paediatrics
- Mental Health
Investigations
- MRI
- CT
- Ultrasound
- X-ray
- Blood tests
Other Services
- Physiotherapy
- Dietitian
- Psychology
If you're unsure which specialist you need, Dr Secretary will advise on the most appropriate referral during your consultation.
Private & NHS referral pathways
Whether a private or NHS referral is right for you depends on your circumstances, how quickly you'd like to be seen, and where you wish to receive ongoing care. Dr Secretary will explain your options clearly.
Private GP referrals vs NHS referrals
A private GP referral lets you see a private consultant or specialist without waiting for an NHS referral pathway. Patients often choose it for faster access to specialist appointments, greater choice of consultants and hospitals, more flexibility when arranging appointments, and continuity of care with their chosen specialist. Any consultation fees or treatment costs charged by the specialist or private hospital are separate from your GP appointment.
Can a private GP refer you to an NHS specialist?
In some situations, yes — though NHS referral pathways vary depending on local NHS policies, the service required and your individual circumstances. If an NHS referral is appropriate, Dr Secretary will explain your options; in some cases you may be advised to see your NHS GP to access a specific local NHS pathway.
Can you move between private and NHS care?
Many patients combine private and NHS healthcare during their treatment journey — for example, seeing a private consultant for an earlier assessment before continuing care within the NHS, or beginning NHS treatment and later choosing private care for ongoing management. The most appropriate pathway depends on your condition, and Dr Secretary will explain your options.
Do you need a GP referral for private treatment?
Not always. Some private consultants and clinics accept self-referrals, while others ask for a GP referral first. Even where one is not essential, a referral letter gives the specialist important clinical information — your symptoms, medical history, current medication, previous investigations and the reason for referral — helping direct you to the right specialist and reducing delays.
What happens during your consultation?
If you're concerned you may need specialist care, booking an appointment is the first step. During your consultation, Dr Secretary will:
Listen & Discuss
Dr Secretary listens to your concerns and discusses your symptoms, medical history and any previous treatment or investigations.
Clinical Assessment
A clinical assessment is carried out to determine whether a specialist referral is appropriate for your circumstances.
Discuss Your Options
Your options are explained, including private and NHS referral pathways where suitable, so you can make an informed decision.
Recommend a Specialist
Dr Secretary recommends the most appropriate specialist or service based on your individual healthcare needs.
Arrange the Referral
A referral letter is arranged where clinically appropriate. If further investigations are needed first, these are explained and discussed with you.
Appointment fees
Your consultation fee covers a comprehensive GP assessment — the chance to discuss your symptoms, ask questions and receive expert advice on whether a specialist referral is appropriate.
Where a referral is clinically appropriate, the referral letter is usually included in your consultation. Any specialist or hospital fees are separate and charged by the provider. If additional documentation or investigations are needed first, any costs are always discussed with you beforehand. View the full pricing page →
More than just a referral
Choosing a GP is about more than getting a referral — patients want to feel listened to, understand their options and leave with a clear plan. Many tell us the biggest difference is simply having enough time to discuss their concerns properly, without feeling rushed.
The Same Doctor Every Time
You'll see Dr Faizal Secretary personally, ensuring genuine continuity of care.
Time to Ask Questions
Appointments are designed to give you enough time to discuss your concerns properly.
Prompt Access to Referrals
Where appropriate, referrals and investigations can be arranged without unnecessary delay.
Convenient Appointments
Evening, Saturday, telephone, video and face-to-face appointments are available.
Clear, Honest Advice
Every recommendation is based on your individual clinical assessment.
Meet Dr Faizal Secretary
Dr Faizal Secretary trained at the University of Manchester and has extensive experience across NHS general practice and acute medicine. He founded My Private Clinic to provide longer appointments, continuity of care and clear, patient-centred medical advice. Every patient sees Dr Secretary directly, and every consultation ends with practical advice, clear next steps and a personalised care plan based on your assessment.
"Good healthcare starts with listening properly."
Dr Faizal Secretary, MBChB MRCGP · Read the full profile →
Private GP referrals, answered
What is a GP referral?
A GP referral is a letter from your doctor explaining your symptoms, medical history and the reason a specialist opinion is being requested. It helps the specialist understand your condition before your appointment.
Can a private GP refer me to a specialist?
Yes. Following a clinical assessment, Dr Faizal Secretary can provide a referral to an appropriate private specialist where it is medically justified.
Do I need a GP referral for private treatment?
Not always. Some private consultants accept self-referrals, while others ask for a GP referral. If you're unsure, Dr Secretary can advise you during your consultation.
Can a private GP refer me to an NHS specialist?
In some situations, yes. However, NHS referral pathways vary depending on local NHS policies and the service required. If an NHS referral is appropriate, Dr Secretary will explain your options and advise on the next steps.
What happens after a GP referral?
After your referral has been prepared, you'll arrange an appointment with the specialist, who will discuss any further investigations or treatment.
How do I get a referral from a GP?
Simply book a consultation and discuss your symptoms with Dr Faizal Secretary. If a specialist opinion is appropriate, a referral can usually be arranged during or shortly after your appointment.
Can I choose which specialist I see?
Yes. If you're arranging private healthcare, you can often choose your preferred consultant or hospital. If you're unsure who to see, Dr Secretary can recommend an appropriate specialist based on your condition.
How much does a private GP referral cost?
The referral itself is usually included as part of your GP consultation. Any fees charged by the specialist or private hospital are separate and will be explained by the provider.
Can a GP refuse to refer me?
Yes. A referral is based on clinical judgement. If Dr Secretary believes another approach is more appropriate, he'll explain the reasons and discuss the most suitable next steps for your care.
How quickly can I be referred?
Where a referral is clinically appropriate, referral letters can often be prepared during or shortly after your consultation, helping you arrange your specialist appointment without unnecessary delay.
Need a private GP referral?
If you're concerned about your symptoms or feel you may benefit from seeing a specialist, Dr Faizal Secretary can advise whether a referral is appropriate and arrange referral letters where clinically indicated. Appointments are available in person, by telephone or by video, with no NHS GP registration required.