Key takeaways
- An initial private consultant appointment typically costs around £150–£350; some London specialists charge more.
- Follow-up appointments are usually cheaper, but scans and tests are charged separately.
- Insurers pay consultant fees up to their own fee limits, so check whether a policy could leave you with a shortfall.
Waiting to see a specialist is often the longest part of the NHS journey. Paying to see a consultant privately can get you an appointment within days. Here’s what it costs in 2026.
The self-pay price
An initial private consultation with a specialist typically costs around £150 to £350, usually for a 20–30 minute appointment. Sought-after specialists, particularly in London, can charge more. Follow-up appointments are generally cheaper than the first one.
Why the total is often higher
- Tests and scans: blood tests, X-rays, MRI or ultrasound are charged separately.
- Follow-ups: you may need one or more further appointments to discuss results.
- Treatment: any procedure the consultant recommends is a separate cost.
How insurance pays consultant fees
Private medical insurance normally covers specialist consultations under outpatient cover once your GP refers you. Two details matter. First, cheaper policies may limit outpatient cover to a set amount each year. Second, each insurer has its own fee schedule, the most it will pay a consultant. If a consultant charges more than that, you could face a shortfall, so many people choose a consultant the insurer recognises as fully covered.
The headline consultation fee is only the start. Tests and follow-ups are where self-pay costs add up.
Compare outpatient cover
ComparePMI compares outpatient limits and consultant cover across a wide panel of insurers, so you can see the differences side by side. We don’t give advice or favour any insurer; if you’d like advice or decide to go ahead, we introduce you to an FCA-authorised firm who provides it and arranges your cover. It’s free and there’s no obligation.
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This article is general information, not personal advice. Cover, terms and availability vary by insurer and individual circumstances. ComparePMI is the trading style of ComparePMI Limited (company no. 16755241), an independent comparison and introduction service, not tied to any insurer. We do not provide advice or arrange cover ourselves and are not FCA-regulated; we introduce you to FCA-authorised and regulated firms who provide the advice and arrange your cover.