How Insurance Works with Private ENT Appointments
If you’re considering private healthcare, you may be wondering how medical insurance works and what it covers. At Hampshire ENT Clinics, we want to make the process simple and stress-free, so you can focus on your health.
What Does Private Medical Insurance Cover?
Most private medical insurance policies cover:
Initial consultations with a specialist.
Diagnostic tests such as blood tests, hearing tests, ultrasound, CT or MRI scans.
Surgical treatment if needed, usually including hospital fees, surgeon, and anaesthetist costs.
Follow-up care after surgery.
However, coverage varies between insurers and policies, so it’s always best to check your individual policy details.
How to Use Insurance for Your Appointment
Check your policy – confirm whether your condition and treatment are covered.
Get a GP referral – many insurers require a GP (or NHS consultant) referral letter before covering private appointments. You can see a private GP, often included in many private insurance policies (just ask your insurer).
Contact your insurer – before booking, call your insurer and explain why you need to see an ENT specialist.
Get an authorisation code – your insurer will provide this code, which you should bring to your appointment.
Book your appointment – with your authorisation in place, we’ll invoice your insurer directly.
What If You Don’t Have Insurance?
If you don’t have private medical insurance, you can still self-fund your appointment and treatment. At Hampshire ENT Clinics, we provide clear, transparent pricing so you always know the costs upfront.
Why Choose Hampshire ENT Clinics?
Approved by major insurers including Bupa, AXA, Aviva, Vitality, WPA, and Cigna.
Simple booking process – our admin team can help guide you through authorisation if needed.
No hidden fees – everything is explained in advance.
Flexible care – you can use insurance for part of your pathway and self-fund if you prefer.
Take the Next Step
If you’re planning to use your medical insurance for ENT care, we’re here to help make the process smooth and straightforward. Clinics available at Portsmouth, Winchester & Salisbury, and the wider Hampshire region.
📞 Contact Hampshire ENT Clinics today to book your insured consultation or to ask any questions about how cover works.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Using Private Medical Insurance at Hampshire ENT Clinics
Do you accept private medical insurance?
Yes. Hampshire ENT Clinics is recognised by major UK insurers, including Bupa, AXA Health, Aviva, Vitality, WPA, and Cigna.
What does private medical insurance usually cover?
Most policies cover initial specialist consultations, diagnostic investigations (such as scans and tests), surgical treatment if required, and follow-up care. Coverage varies by policy, so it is important to check your individual terms.
Do I need a GP referral to use my insurance?
In most cases, yes. Many insurers require a referral from your GP or an NHS consultant before authorising private ENT care. Some policies include access to a private GP service, which can also provide referrals.
What is an authorisation code and why do I need one?
An authorisation code is provided by your insurer to confirm they have approved your consultation or treatment. You should obtain this code before your appointment and bring it with you.
What happens if my insurer only partially covers my care?
Some insurers limit what they will fund. We offer flexible options, allowing you to use insurance for part of your care and self-fund any uncovered elements, with all costs explained in advance.
Will I have to pay anything upfront?
If your insurer has authorised your care in full, we usually invoice them directly. If there are any shortfalls or exclusions, these will be discussed clearly before your appointment.
What if I don’t have private medical insurance?
You can still access care by self-funding. We provide transparent pricing so you know the costs upfront, with no hidden fees.
Can I switch between insurance and self-pay during treatment?
Yes. Some patients choose to self-fund an initial consultation and then use insurance for investigations or surgery, or vice versa. Our team can advise on the most practical approach.
Where are insured appointments available?
Insured consultations and treatments are available across Portsmouth, Winchester, Salisbury, and the wider Hampshire region.
Who can help me with insurance queries?
Our administrative team is happy to guide you through the process, including checking insurer recognition and helping you prepare for authorisation.