How to book private neurologist - London
Hi all, I am quite sure due to my symptoms that I am likely to have MS (or something like it) and just want confirmation. As none of my symptoms are too bad I can't get an urgent NHS neurologist appointment and therefore have been allocated one in Jan 2023!
Obviously want a diagnosis by then. Just wondering if anyone has advice on how to book a private neurologist and likely cost of tests etc. This is in London, England.
Hi Seeing a neurologist privately is only the first step. An acquaintance did this two years ago, I can't remember the exact figures but the journey was something like: Initial consultation, neuro exam 250 Blood work 150 Referral for contrast MRI head and spine incl. neuroradiologist report 2.600 Consultation with outpatient spinal tap 250 Lab work 300 plus (some things are optional, like lyme disease etc and depend largely upon what the consultant deemed necessary.) Consultation/report 220 -> diagnosed with a mild form and minor lesions -> option to continue privately but then decided to wait for NHS appointment. Before Brexit, the cheaper way to get diagnosed quickly was to go anywhere else in the EU. Since this isn't emergent care, they probably won't even give you an MRI but refer you back to the NHS. Sorry that the option "I'd rather spend that cash on a nice holiday and have this checked out then" is off the table. Good luck!
@Pikers if i was you i would just wait for the nhs. If you do have MS, nothing they can tell you now will make a difference. At best theyll put you on treatment, 30% effective treatment that is, and thats it. You should just enjoy your summer! No cure for MS. At best they can slow it down. I say at best, provided you fight tooth and nail for the good drugs that come with lots of hardcore side effects. Waiting for jan2023 appointment will have no impact in the grand scheme of things.. only a few months. This is just my personal opinion, i am no expert here. Just lived with it for 14 + yrs