If you’re considering treatment for Dupuytren’s disease, you may wonder whether a GP referral is required. In private practice, you can usually book directly without a referral. This guide explains how self-referral works, when a GP referral is needed, and what happens after booking your consultation.
If you’re thinking about treatment for Dupuytren’s disease, one of the most common questions is whether you need a GP referral before you can see a specialist. This usually comes up when you’ve noticed a change in your hand and want to understand what it means and what to do next.
The short answer is straightforward. If you are paying for yourself in a private setting, you do not need a GP referral. You can refer yourself directly and book an appointment without going through your GP.
You can book directly without a GP referral
In private practice, self-referral is completely acceptable. There is no requirement to have seen your GP beforehand, and no formal referral letter is needed to arrange an initial consultation.
This means you can go straight to a specialist assessment rather than waiting for an additional step in the process.
How to arrange an appointment
There are several ways to get in touch. You can send an enquiry through the website, email the clinic, or call directly. In practice, the simplest option is usually to book an appointment through the online calendar, as this allows you to secure a time immediately.
Once your appointment is booked, we will send you the relevant information in advance so that you know what to expect.
What happens after booking
After booking, you will receive an information pack explaining how radiotherapy works, when it is used, and what the treatment process involves. You will also be given a clear outline of the costs.
You will also be asked to complete a pre-consultation questionnaire. This collects important background information, including your medical history, medications, and details about what has been happening with your hands or feet.
Completing this in advance means that the consultation can focus on the key questions—what stage your disease is at, whether it is active, and what your treatment options are—rather than spending time going over basic details.
Expert Non-Invasive Treatment for Dupuytren’s and Ledderhose Disease Across the UK
Dr Richard Shaffer set up Dupuytren’s UK in April 2011 to provide non-invasive treatments for people who suffer from benign conditions such as Ledderhose disease and early-stage Dupuytren’s contracture in the Guildford area. Today, Dupuytren’s UK offers this service to patients throughout the UK.
Do you ever need a GP referral?
If you are paying for yourself, a GP referral is not needed.
The main situation where a GP referral becomes necessary is if you are using private medical insurance, as most insurers require this as part of the authorisation process.
If you do come to clinic, we will keep your GP informed by sending them a copy of the clinic letters, so they remain updated about your diagnosis and any treatment decisions.
What about NHS referrals?
This pathway is separate. Access to specialist care through the NHS requires referral via your GP, and I do not see patients through the NHS.
Radiotherapy for Dupuytren’s disease is also generally not available within the NHS. There are specific reasons for this, which are explained in more detail in a separate article.
Summary
If you are paying privately, you can refer yourself directly and book an appointment without needing a GP referral. The process is designed to be simple, with information and a questionnaire provided in advance so that the consultation can focus on the important decisions.
If you are using private medical insurance, you will usually need a GP referral to obtain authorisation before being seen.
If you are unsure about your stage of Dupuytren’s disease or what your options are, arranging a specialist assessment is the most direct way to understand where you are and what to do next.
