How Much Does a Private Consultation Cost in 2026
As an FCA-authorised broker that has arranged over 900,000 policies, WeCovr provides expert insight into the UK’s private medical insurance market. This guide breaks down the expected costs of private specialist consultations for 2026, helping you navigate your healthcare choices with confidence.
WeCovr explains typical consultation fees across the UK
Waiting lists and the pressure on NHS services have led many people in the UK to consider private healthcare. One of the first steps on this journey is a consultation with a specialist. But how much does this actually cost?
The price can vary significantly depending on the specialty, the consultant's experience, and where you are in the country. In this guide, we'll demystify the costs you can expect in 2026, explain how private medical insurance can cover these fees, and offer practical advice for managing your health.
What is a Private Consultation and Why Would I Need One?
A private consultation is a medical appointment with a specialist consultant outside of the NHS. You might be referred to one by your GP for a specific health concern that needs expert diagnosis or a treatment plan.
People choose private consultations for several key reasons:
- Speed: The most common reason is to bypass long NHS waiting times. According to NHS England data, millions of people are waiting for consultant-led elective care, with many waiting several months for an initial appointment. Privately, you can often see a specialist within days or weeks.
- Choice: The private sector gives you more control over who you see. You can research and choose a specific consultant based on their reputation, experience, and patient reviews.
- Convenience: Private appointments often offer more flexibility, including evening or weekend slots, making it easier to fit around work and family commitments.
- Time and Attention: Private consultations are often longer than their NHS counterparts, giving you more time to discuss your concerns in-depth and ask questions without feeling rushed.
How Much Will a Private Consultation Cost in 2026?
Predicting exact costs two years in advance involves projecting current trends, but based on recent healthcare inflation, we can provide a reliable estimate. Prices are expected to be highest in London and other major city centres.
There are two main types of consultation fees:
- Initial Consultation: This is your first meeting with the specialist. It's typically longer and more expensive as it involves taking a detailed medical history, conducting an examination, and forming an initial diagnosis or plan.
- Follow-up Consultation: These are shorter, subsequent appointments to review test results, monitor your progress, or adjust your treatment. They are usually less expensive than the initial meeting.
Estimated Private Consultation Fees by Speciality (2026)
The table below shows our projected cost ranges for an initial private consultation across popular medical specialities in 2026. Follow-up appointments are typically 30-50% cheaper.
| Medical Speciality | Estimated Initial Consultation Cost (UK Average) | Estimated Initial Consultation Cost (London) | What it Covers |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dermatology | £250 – £350 | £300 – £450 | Skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, acne, mole checks. |
| Cardiology | £280 – £400 | £350 – £500 | Heart-related concerns, blood pressure, cholesterol. |
| Orthopaedics | £270 – £380 | £320 – £480 | Joint pain (knee, hip, shoulder), sports injuries, back issues. |
| Gastroenterology | £270 – £380 | £320 – £480 | Digestive issues like IBS, acid reflux, coeliac disease. |
| Gynaecology | £260 – £360 | £300 – £460 | Women's health issues, pelvic pain, menstrual disorders. |
| Psychiatry | £350 – £550 | £450 – £700 | Mental health diagnosis and management (ADHD, depression). |
| Paediatrics | £250 – £400 | £300 – £500 | Specialist care for children's health conditions. |
| ENT (Ear, Nose & Throat) | £250 – £350 | £290 – £420 | Hearing problems, sinus issues, tonsillitis, allergies. |
Disclaimer: These figures are estimates for 2026, based on 2024-2025 data and projected annual inflation of 3-5%. Actual prices will vary.
Key Factors That Influence the Cost
The price you pay isn't arbitrary. Several factors determine a consultant's fee:
- The Consultant's Profile: A highly experienced professor with a worldwide reputation will naturally charge more than a newly qualified consultant.
- Location: Clinics in Central London, particularly around the prestigious Harley Street area, have higher overheads and therefore charge the highest fees in the country. Costs tend to be lower in the North of England, Scotland, and Wales.
- The Clinic or Hospital: Appointments at large, modern private hospitals with extensive facilities may cost more than at a smaller, independent clinic.
- Complexity: If your initial consultation is expected to be particularly complex and long, the fee may be higher.
Paying for Your Consultation: Self-Pay vs. Private Medical Insurance
You have two main options for funding your private healthcare journey.
-
Self-Pay: This means you pay for the consultation and any subsequent tests or treatment directly from your own funds.
- Pros: It's straightforward, and you don't need an insurance policy. You can book an appointment immediately.
- Cons: The costs can be unpredictable and add up quickly. A simple consultation is manageable, but if you need diagnostic scans (£500-£2,000) or surgery (which can run into tens of thousands of pounds), it can become unaffordable.
-
Private Medical Insurance (PMI): This is the most common way to fund private treatment. You pay a monthly premium to an insurer, and they cover the costs of eligible treatment, including consultations.
- Pros: Provides peace of mind and protection against large, unexpected medical bills. It makes private healthcare accessible and affordable.
- Cons: It requires planning ahead. You must have a policy in place before you become unwell.
As an expert PMI broker, WeCovr can help you find a policy that fits your budget and covers the services you're most likely to need.
How Private Medical Insurance Covers Your Consultation Fees
Understanding how your private medical insurance UK policy works is key to using it effectively.
The Critical Rule: Acute, Pre-existing, and Chronic Conditions
This is the single most important concept to understand about UK PMI.
- PMI is for Acute Conditions: It is designed to cover conditions that are short-term, curable, and arise after you take out the policy. Examples include joint pain needing a replacement, cataracts, or hernias.
- PMI Does NOT Cover Pre-existing Conditions: Any illness, injury, or symptom you have had in the years before your policy starts will be excluded from cover, usually for the first two years.
- PMI Does NOT Cover Chronic Conditions: Long-term conditions that cannot be cured but can be managed, such as diabetes, asthma, or high blood pressure, are not covered. Management for these remains with the NHS.
The Process for Using Your Insurance
- Visit Your GP: Your journey almost always starts with your NHS or private GP. If they feel you need to see a specialist, they will write you a referral letter.
- Contact Your Insurer: Before booking anything, you must call your insurance provider to get the claim authorised. They will check your cover and give you an authorisation number.
- Choose a Specialist: Your insurer will provide a list of approved specialists. Many top-tier policies offer an open choice, as long as the consultant's fees are within the insurer's accepted limits.
- Book Your Appointment: You can then contact the specialist's secretary, provide your authorisation number, and book the consultation. The bill is usually sent directly to your insurer.
Understanding Outpatient Cover Limits
Consultations, diagnostic tests, and therapies fall under the 'outpatient' section of your policy. Insurers offer different levels of outpatient cover, which directly impacts your premium.
| Level of Outpatient Cover | What It Typically Means | Who It's Good For |
|---|---|---|
| Full / Unlimited Cover | All eligible consultations and diagnostic tests are covered in full. | Those who want comprehensive peace of mind and don't want to worry about hitting a limit. |
| Capped Cover (e.g., £1,000) | The insurer will pay for outpatient services up to a set monetary limit per policy year. | A good middle ground, balancing cost and cover. £1,000 covers several consultations and some tests. |
| Limited / Basic Cover | May only cover a few consultations post-surgery or have a very low cap (e.g., £500). Some policies have no outpatient cover at all. | Those on a tight budget primarily concerned with covering the high cost of surgery (inpatient treatment). |
Beyond the Consultation: Watch Out for These Extra Costs
The initial consultation fee is just the starting point. Your specialist will likely recommend further steps, each with its own cost. A good private health cover policy will also cover these.
| Service | Estimated Self-Pay Cost (2026) | How PMI Helps |
|---|---|---|
| Blood Tests | £50 – £400+ | Usually covered under your outpatient limit. |
| MRI Scan | £600 – £1,200 | Covered if deemed medically necessary. |
| CT Scan | £500 – £900 | Covered if deemed medically necessary. |
| Ultrasound Scan | £300 – £600 | Covered if deemed medically necessary. |
| Minor Procedure | £200 – £1,000+ | Procedures done during the consultation (e.g., a skin biopsy) are often covered. |
| Private Prescriptions | £10 – £100+ | PMI policies typically do not cover the cost of take-home drugs. |
The WeCovr Advantage: A Smarter Way to Get Covered
Choosing the right private medical insurance can feel overwhelming. That's where an independent broker like WeCovr comes in.
- Expert, Unbiased Advice: We are not tied to any single insurer. Our experts work for you, comparing policies from the UK's leading providers to find the best fit for your needs and budget.
- No Extra Cost: Our service is completely free to you. We earn a commission from the insurer you choose, but the premium you pay is the same as going direct.
- Value-Added Benefits: When you arrange cover through us, you get more than just a policy. We provide complimentary access to CalorieHero, our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, to help you stay on top of your health goals. Plus, clients who purchase PMI or Life Insurance often receive exclusive discounts on other types of cover.
- High Customer Satisfaction: Our focus on clear, human-centered advice has earned us consistently high ratings on major customer review platforms.
Proactive Health: Tips to Keep You Out of the Doctor's Office
While insurance is there for when things go wrong, the best strategy is to stay healthy. Small, consistent lifestyle choices can have a huge impact.
- Nourish Your Body: Aim for a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Staying hydrated is equally important—aim for 6-8 glasses of water a day.
- Move Every Day: The NHS recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity a week. This could be a brisk walk, a cycle ride, dancing, or gardening. Find something you enjoy!
- Prioritise Sleep: Most adults need 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. It's crucial for mental health, immune function, and physical recovery.
- Manage Stress: Chronic stress can contribute to a host of health problems. Make time for relaxation, whether it's through mindfulness, yoga, reading, or spending time in nature.
By taking a proactive approach to your well-being, you can reduce your risk of developing acute conditions that require specialist intervention.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do I need a GP referral for a private consultation?
Generally, yes. Almost all UK private medical insurance providers require a GP referral before they will authorise a claim for a specialist consultation. This ensures that you are seeing the right type of specialist for your symptoms. Some modern policies and self-pay clinics are starting to offer self-referral, but the GP-led route remains the standard and most reliable pathway.
Can I use private medical insurance for a condition I already have?
No, standard UK private medical insurance does not cover pre-existing conditions. A pre-existing condition is any disease, illness, or injury for which you have had symptoms, medication, or advice in the years before your policy began (typically the last 5 years). PMI is designed to cover new, acute conditions that arise after your policy start date.
How does an excess on my PMI policy affect my consultation claim?
An excess is a fixed amount you agree to pay towards a claim each policy year. For example, if you have a £250 excess and your first claim of the year is for a £300 consultation, you would pay the first £250 and your insurer would pay the remaining £50. For any subsequent claims in that same policy year, the insurer would pay the full cost (up to your policy limits) because your excess has already been paid. Choosing a higher excess is a common way to reduce your monthly premium.
Take the Next Step Towards Peace of Mind
Navigating private healthcare costs and insurance options doesn't have to be complicated. With the right information and expert guidance, you can make choices that protect both your health and your finances. The cost of a single consultation can be manageable, but the total cost of private treatment for a serious condition can be substantial.
Let us help you find the right private health cover for your needs. Get a free, no-obligation quote from a WeCovr expert today and gain the peace of mind that comes with knowing you're prepared for whatever comes next.
Related guides
Why private medical insurance and how does it work?
What is Private Medical Insurance?
Private medical insurance (PMI) is a type of health insurance that provides access to private healthcare services in the UK. It covers the cost of private medical treatment, allowing you to bypass NHS waiting lists and receive faster, more convenient care.How does it work?
Private medical insurance works by paying for your private healthcare costs. When you need treatment, you can choose to go private and your insurance will cover the costs, subject to your policy terms and conditions. This can include:• Private consultations with specialists
• Private hospital treatment and surgery
• Diagnostic tests and scans
• Physiotherapy and rehabilitation
• Mental health treatment
Your premium depends on factors like your age, health, occupation, and the level of cover you choose. Most policies offer different levels of cover, from basic to comprehensive, allowing you to tailor the policy to your needs and budget.
Questions to ask yourself regarding private medical insurance
Just ask yourself:👉 Are you concerned about NHS waiting times for treatment?
👉 Would you prefer to choose your own consultant and hospital?
👉 Do you want faster access to diagnostic tests and scans?
👉 Would you like private hospital accommodation and better food?
👉 Do you want to avoid the stress of NHS waiting lists?
Many people don't realise that private medical insurance is more affordable than they think, especially when you consider the value of faster treatment and better facilities. A great insurance policy can provide peace of mind and ensure you receive the care you need when you need it.
Benefits offered by private medical insurance
Private medical insurance provides numerous benefits that can significantly improve your healthcare experience and outcomes:Faster Access to Treatment
One of the biggest advantages is avoiding NHS waiting lists. While the NHS provides excellent care, waiting times can be lengthy. With private medical insurance, you can often receive treatment within days or weeks rather than months.
Choice of Consultant and Hospital
You can choose your preferred consultant and hospital, giving you more control over your healthcare journey. This is particularly important for complex treatments where you want a specific specialist.
Better Facilities and Accommodation
Private hospitals typically offer superior facilities, including private rooms, better food, and more comfortable surroundings. This can make your recovery more pleasant and potentially faster.
Advanced Treatments
Private medical insurance often covers treatments and medications not available on the NHS, giving you access to the latest medical advances and technologies.
Mental Health Support
Many policies include comprehensive mental health coverage, providing faster access to therapy and psychiatric care when needed.
Tax Benefits for Business Owners
If you're self-employed or a business owner, private medical insurance premiums can be tax-deductible, making it a cost-effective way to protect your health and your business.
Peace of Mind
Knowing you have access to private healthcare when you need it provides invaluable peace of mind, especially for those with ongoing health conditions or concerns about NHS capacity.
Private medical insurance is particularly valuable for those who want to take control of their healthcare journey and ensure they receive the best possible treatment when they need it most.
Important Fact!
There is no need to wait until the renewal of your current policy.
We can look at a more suitable option mid-term!
We can look at a more suitable option mid-term!
Why is it important to get private medical insurance early?
👉 Many people are very thankful that they had their private medical insurance cover in place before running into some serious health issues. Private medical insurance is as important as life insurance for protecting your family's finances.👉 We insure our cars, houses, and even our phones! Yet our health is the most precious thing we have.
Easily one of the most important insurance purchases an individual or family can make in their lifetime, the decision to buy private medical insurance can be made much simpler with the help of FCA-authorised advisers. They are the specialists who do the searching and analysis helping people choose between various types of private medical insurance policies available in the market, including different levels of cover and policy types most suitable to the client's individual circumstances.
It certainly won't do any harm if you speak with one of our experienced insurance experts who are passionate about advising people on financial matters related to private medical insurance and are keen to provide you with a free consultation.
You can discuss with them in detail what affordable private medical insurance plan for the necessary peace of mind they would recommend! WeCovr works with some of the best advisers in the market.
By tapping the button below, you can book a free call with them in less than 30 seconds right now:
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WeCovr is an insurance specialist for people valuing their peace of mind and a great service.👍 WeCovr will help you get your private medical insurance, life insurance, critical illness insurance and others in no time thanks to our wonderful super-friendly experts ready to assist you every step of the way.
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