Frequently Asked Questions

About the Clinic

What type of healthcare provider is Nottingham Road Clinic?
Nottingham Road Clinic (NRC) is an independent private healthcare provider offering specialist outpatient consultations, diagnostic services and treatments. Care is consultant-led, with access to experienced doctors and allied health professionals working within a structured clinical governance framework.

How is Nottingham Road Clinic regulated?
Nottingham Road Clinic is registered with and regulated by the Care Quality Commission (CQC). This means the clinic is inspected against national standards covering patient safety, clinical effectiveness, leadership, responsiveness and patient experience.
Are clinicians experienced and appropriately qualified?
Yes. All clinicians practising at Nottingham Road Clinic are fully qualified, professionally registered and work within their area of expertise. Many also hold NHS consultant or senior clinical posts, bringing extensive experience in managing both routine and complex conditions.

Appointments and Referrals

Do I need a GP referral to be seen?
A GP referral is not always required for self-pay patients at Nottingham Road Clinic. Many patients choose to book directly for an initial specialist opinion. However, some investigations, procedures or private medical insurance policies do require a referral. The clinic team can advise before booking.
Can my NHS GP refer me privately?
Yes. NHS GPs can provide private referrals, and many patients use private care at Nottingham Road Clinic alongside NHS treatment or to access timely specialist assessment.

What if I have already had NHS investigations?
Previous test results, scans or clinic letters can usually be reviewed as part of your appointment. This can help avoid unnecessary duplication and support a more informed discussion about next steps.

Private Medical Insurance

Do you work with private medical insurers?
Nottingham Road Clinic works with a range of UK private medical insurers. Coverage varies depending on individual policies, the clinician seen and the service provided.
What should I check with my insurer before attending?
Patients are advised to confirm whether the consultation or treatment is covered, whether a GP referral is required, that the clinic and clinician are recognised by the insurer, and whether an authorisation number is needed.
What happens if my insurance does not cover everything?
If part of the care is not covered, this will be explained clearly before treatment proceeds. Patients may choose to self-fund any uncovered elements.

Private Medical Insurance

Do you work with private medical insurers?
Nottingham Road Clinic works with a range of UK private medical insurers. Coverage varies depending on individual policies, the clinician seen and the service provided.
What should I check with my insurer before attending?
Patients are advised to confirm whether the consultation or treatment is covered, whether a GP referral is required, that the clinic and clinician are recognised by the insurer, and whether an authorisation number is needed.
What happens if my insurance does not cover everything?
If part of the care is not covered, this will be explained clearly before treatment proceeds. Patients may choose to self-fund any uncovered elements.

Your Consultation

What happens during my first appointment?
The consultation focuses on understanding symptoms, concerns and medical history. The clinician will take time to listen, explain possible causes, discuss investigations where appropriate and outline treatment or management options.
Will I have enough time to ask questions?
Yes. Consultations at Nottingham Road Clinic are structured to allow more time than standard NHS appointments, ensuring patients can ask questions and feel confident about their care plan.
Will I receive a diagnosis on the day?
In some cases, a working diagnosis can be made during the first appointment. In others, further tests may be required. This will be clearly explained.

Tests and Investigations

What types of tests can be arranged?
Depending on the service, Nottingham Road Clinic can arrange blood tests, imaging, physiological tests and specialist investigations. All tests are guided by clinical need.
How quickly are tests arranged?
Private services often allow faster access to investigations, and some tests may be arranged on the same day or within a short timeframe.
How will I receive my results?
Results are reviewed by the clinician and discussed with you, either in a follow-up appointment, by letter or by telephone, depending on the agreed plan.

Treatment and Management

What treatment options are available?
Treatment may include medication, procedures, lifestyle advice, referral to another specialist or further investigation. Care is personalised to each patient.
Will I need follow-up appointments?
Some conditions require follow-up, while others may only need a single consultation. This will be discussed during your appointment.
Can Nottingham Road Clinic provide ongoing care?
Some conditions can be managed privately on an ongoing basis. Others may be managed jointly with NHS services, depending on what is most appropriate.

Fees and Payment

How are fees structured?
Fees depend on the type of consultation, investigation or treatment. Clear information is provided in advance.
When is payment required?
Self-pay patients are usually asked to pay at or before their appointment.
Are there any unexpected costs?
Any additional costs are discussed before tests or treatments are arranged.

Medical Records and Confidentiality

How is my information protected?
All patient information is handled in line with UK data protection legislation and strict medical confidentiality standards.
Can information be shared with my GP?
With patient consent, clinic letters and results are shared with the GP to support continuity of care.

Accessibility and Patient Support

Is the clinic accessible?
Nottingham Road Clinic aims to be accessible and supportive. Patients with additional needs are encouraged to contact the clinic in advance.
Can someone attend with me?
Patients are welcome to bring a family member or friend for support, unless clinically inappropriate.

Safety, Quality and Governance

How does the clinic ensure high standards of care?
The clinic follows robust clinical governance processes, including audit, infection control, safeguarding and incident reporting.
What if I have a concern or complaint?
Concerns are taken seriously and managed through a formal complaints process focused on transparency and improvement.

After Your Appointment

What happens after my appointment?
Patients receive a written summary outlining findings, recommendations and next steps.
Who do I contact if I have questions later?
The clinic team can assist with administrative queries and arrange clinical follow-up if needed.