Frequently Asked Questions

How can I book an appointment with a consultant?

Please call our medical secretary on 07453 881588 or email your request for an appointment to secretary@londonentassociates.org and this will be confirmed within one working day. Alternatively you can call any of our clinics direct to make an appointment (please find full details on our contact page).

How can I check my appointment date and time?

You can ring our secretary to check your appointment details; if you are not able to reach us and need the information urgently, please do call the hospital outpatient department where your appointment has been scheduled.  Alternatively, please email our secretary with your query.

What if I am unable attend my appointment?

If you are unable to attend your appointment you can ring our secretary or call the Hospital Outpatient Department directly. Please ensure to give at least 24 hours notice. Unfortunately, Should you cancel your appointment with less than 24 hours’ notice, a cancellation charge of up to 50% of the new or follow-up appointment fee may be charged.  If you do not arrive for your appointment without prior notice you will be billed at 100% of the consultation fee.

Please refer to our “Insurance” page for more information on this and to view our legal fee letter agreement.

Do I need to have private medical insurance to be treated?

No, you can also self-fund for treatment. With some insurance companies we require a letter of guarantee and this will need to be presented in advance of treatment. All authorisation numbers need to be given in advance of treatment to our medical secretary.

Your insurance company may not authorise payment for your treatment if you do not call them prior to your appointment. You will have to speak directly to your insurers to confirm prior to consultation or treatment commencing otherwise you would be fully responsible for any patient fees incurred.

Please refer to our “Insurance” page for more information on this and to view our legal fee letter agreement.

Will I need a GP referral?

No, not always, you can also self refer for treatment. However, your insurance company may not authorise payment for your treatment if you self-refer. You will have to speak directly to them to confirm prior to consultation or treatment commencing. If they do not authorise, you would be fully responsible for any patient fees incurred.

Can I be treated if I live overseas or am not a UK resident?

Yes, you can be treated if you are an overseas patient or a non-UK resident. You would need to have funds in place to guarantee treatment. This would be either a self-funding method or via a recognised insurance company. If self-funding on most occasions, fees are payable on the day at the hospital/clinic.

What will happen on the day of my surgery?

On the day you will be admitted one hour before your planned surgery, this will enable you to be seen by the Consultant Anaesthetist who will carry out your anaesthesia. You will also be seen by your surgeon, who will discuss any last minute questions that you may have. Please feel free to make a note of these questions beforehand so these can be discussed. 

What happens after the surgery?

Before you leave the hospital you will be given instructions regarding your recommended aftercare. We strongly urge that you to follow these instructions.  Should you have any queries, please do not hesitate to ask the hospital staff before your discharge or contact our Medical Secretary on 07453 881588 or our Practice Manager on 07534 771264.  If you need further information out of hours, then please contact he hospital where you were treated.  In a medical emergency please call 999 or attend your local accident and emergency department.

How much time will I need off work?

This will be discussed at your consultation prior to surgery as every procedure recovery time can vary.

What should I bring into hospital with me?

Please bring with you any medication you are currently taking, including any inhalers. Please also bring your nightwear, daywear, dressing gown, toiletries, slippers (books and magazines and a pen if desired). Please ensure not to bring any valuables with you.