Before meeting the consultant prepare a list of questions, and make sure you get time to ask them.
View our list of questions to ask your consultant. Afterwards, reflect on whether your individual circumstances and needs were taken into account and whether you were happy with the answers given. For example, was sufficient information provided about alternative treatment options, possible risks, or side effects? Equally, did you feel comfortable with the consultant? If not, ask the hospital or your GP to refer you to somebody else. Admittedly any subsequent consultations will need to be paid for, but you should weigh this up with the price of being satisfied and receiving the care you deserve, by someone you trust.
Some suggested questions to ask the private doctors/surgeons include (
See full list):
What time will your operation take place; will it be after the consultant has worked a full day in the NHS? (This could affect your decision);
Where else does the surgeon operate?
What is their experience of this type of procedure?
How many operations/procedures of this type do they carry out each year?
What is their success rate for the operation?
Have the surgeon and anaesthetist worked together before? This is critical as they build up a relationship and can better monitor the patient’s needs;
What type of anaesthetic will be used? Are there any risks with this type of anesthesia?
Will the anaesthetist perform a pre operative evaluation? And a post operative evaluation?
