Do I need a doctor’s referral?
How much does it cost?
Can I claim back costs of treatment through health insurance?
Where will I be seen?
What happens in a consultation?
How long does a new consultation last?
What about follow-up consultations?
What treatment or procedures are available?
Do I have any choice or say in what happens to me?
Will my GP know about my diagnosis and treatment?
Where can I get more information?
- - - x X x - - -
Do I need a doctor’s referral?
Yes, or a referral from another healthcare professional such as your physiotherapist, chiropractor or osteopath. Many medical insurance companies want the referral to come from your GP. BACK TO TOP
How much does it cost?
Rates vary depending on the length of the consultation and the investigations needed which in turn depend on the nature of the condition. BACK TO TOP
Can I claim back costs of treatment through health insurance?
Yes you can claim back the cost of treatment through health insurance. Dr Richards is registered with AXA, Norwich Union etc and is a BUPA partner. BACK TO TOP
Where will I be seen?
Dr Richards has consulting rooms at The Harbour Hospital, St Mary's Road, Poole VIEW MAP and The Nuffield Hospital, 67 Lansdowne Road, Bournemouth VIEW MAP . Treatment, including surgical procedures, can be undertaken at either of these hospitals. BACK TO TOP
What happens in a consultation?
Typically at a first consultation you will need to describe the problems you are having, be examined and discuss investigations, diagnosis and treatment options. You can discuss any questions or worries you may have. BACK TO TOP
How long does a new consultation last?
For most problems a new consultation lasts up to 30 minutes. For some problems such as fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome it may need up to an hour. BACK TO TOP
What about follow-up consultations?
These are typically shorter than new consultations and will be arranged to discuss the results of investigations and to monitor the progress of your treatment. BACK TO TOP
What treatment or procedures are available?
Apart from the appropriate medicines, you may be referred to another member of the healthcare team such as a physiotherapist, occupational therapist or surgeon. Joint and soft tissue injections can be undertaken as an outpatient. A variety of interventional pain management procedures can be performed in theatre, including epidurals and facet joint injections, usually as a day case. BACK TO TOP
Do I have any choice or say in what happens to me?
Of course. Your doctor will always take your wishes into account. Nothing will happen to you until you understand and agree with what has been planned. Your doctor will only offer investigations and treatment which are appropriate for you. BACK TO TOP
Will my GP know about my diagnosis and treatment?
Yes, they will be kept fully informed by letter. BACK TO TOP
Where can I get more information?
Check the "Resources" page of this website. BACK TO TOP
