Published UK private hospital prices, September 2026.
Waiting for a first NHS specialist appointment is often the longest part of the NHS pathway.
What's usually included
The consultation only. Scans or tests the consultant orders are usually charged separately.
Example published prices
- Spire Healthcare: around £236–£254 for an initial consultation (source)
Prices are published "from" or guide prices and can change. Your consultant, the hospital, London location and medical complexity can all raise the final cost — always ask for a written, all-inclusive quote.
Self-pay or health insurance?
Paying yourself makes sense if you need one known procedure now — health insurance won't cover a condition you already have. Insurance is designed for what might happen in future: it spreads the cost of unexpected diagnosis and treatment into a monthly premium. See our guide to self-pay vs health insurance, or estimate what cover would cost you.
Questions and answers
How much does a private consultant appointment cost in the UK?
An initial appointment with a private consultant typically costs £150–£300. Some specialists and central London clinics charge more. Follow-up appointments are usually cheaper. Prices vary by hospital, consultant and location, so always ask for a written, all-inclusive quote.
What's included in the price of a private consultant appointment?
The consultation only. Scans or tests the consultant orders are usually charged separately.
Will health insurance pay for a consultant appointment?
If you have private health insurance and the condition started after your policy began, your insurer will usually cover it, subject to your policy terms, limits and excess. Conditions you had before taking out cover are normally excluded, so insurance won't help with treatment you already need.
Can I get a consultant appointment on the NHS instead?
Waiting for a first NHS specialist appointment is often the longest part of the NHS pathway. Ask your GP about your NHS options, including choosing where you're treated.
Can I spread the cost of private treatment?
Many private hospitals offer finance or payment plans for self-pay patients. Check the interest rate and terms carefully before agreeing.
Other treatment costs
- Hip replacement
- Knee replacement
- Cataract surgery
- Inguinal hernia repair
- MRI scan
- Colonoscopy
- Gastroscopy (upper endoscopy)
- Gallbladder removal
- Carpal tunnel release
- Knee arthroscopy
- Varicose vein treatment
- Adult tonsillectomy
- Private GP appointment