01279 602675
secretary@david-george.co.uk
Fees & Insurance
Cost is one of the most common, and understandable, questions patients have when considering private hip or knee treatment. This page explains how insurance and self-pay work with the practice, so you know what to expect before your consultation.
What Determines the Cost
The overall cost of treatment depends on several factors: the complexity of your case, the type of implant used if surgery is needed, whether robotic-assisted techniques are involved, and the length of your hospital stay.
Because costs genuinely vary between patients, a personalised quote, rather than a generic headline figure, gives the most accurate picture for your specific situation.
If You Have Private Health Insurance
Mr George is recognised by all major UK insurers, including:
Bupa · AXA Health · Cigna Healthcare · Healix · Aviva · Vitality · WPA · Alliance Health Group · The Exeter
If you're insured, your first step is usually to contact your insurer directly to confirm your policy covers orthopaedic treatment and to obtain pre-authorisation before proceeding. It's worth checking your policy for any excess you're responsible for, and confirming that your chosen consultant and hospital are covered under your specific plan.
The practice team is happy to help guide you through this process, and you can contact them here.
Self-Pay Options
If you don't have insurance, or prefer to pay privately, self-pay treatment is available at The Rivers Hospital, with costs discussed transparently and confirmed in writing before you proceed.
Fixed monthly payment plans are also available through the hospital, spreading the cost of treatment over a period to suit your circumstances, rather than requiring a single upfront payment.
Mr George's current fees for an outpatient appointment are:
Initial appointment: £250 Follow-up appointment: £150
What's Typically Included
A private hip or knee treatment package generally covers the surgeon's and anaesthetist's fees, hospital accommodation, theatre costs, any implant required, and routine follow-up appointments. It's always worth confirming exactly what is and isn't included in any quote you receive, since packages can vary by procedure.
NHS and Private Treatment
Mr George also holds an NHS post at Princess Alexandra Hospital NHS Trust in Harlow. Choosing between NHS and private treatment often comes down to waiting times and scheduling flexibility rather than clinical quality alone - both routes can lead to excellent outcomes, and Mr George is happy to discuss what's right for your circumstances.
Getting an Accurate Quote
Because so much depends on your individual case, the most reliable way to understand your likely costs is through a consultation, where Mr George can assess your specific situation and the practice team can provide a clear, personalised breakdown of fees — whether you're insured or self-paying. There's no obligation attached to asking.