Specialist Referrals
Where can I go?
People who live on Sark can be referred to a specialist of their choice. For specialities such as Cardiology, Ear Nose and Throat, Ophthalmology, Orthopedics, Obstetrics and Gynaecology and Elderly Care Medicine the Medical Specialist Group in Guernsey is often the most convenient choice. Some patients may wish to be referred to Jersey who also provide Endocrinology and Orthopedic services for Sark residents. Psychiatry referrals are usually made to Guernsey and their services are based at Castel Hospital. Patients from Sark are also referred to the UK, for instance to Bath for Rheumatology, Salisbury for Plastic Surgery and to London for more complex medical and surgical needs.
Will I be covered?
One of the most important things to check before arranging to see a specialist is to check that your insurer will cover the cost of seeing them. Some insurers will also cover travel costs. Please make sure that you are aware of the limitations of your policy. In particular please be aware that Jersey referrals may be classed as 'international' under some policies whereas some UK insurers will pay for you to see a specialist on Jersey but not Guernsey!
It is a good idea to call your insurer to check you are covered before your appointment and ask them to confirm this in writing. Make sure that you write down the name of the person you have spoken to and the date and time of the call so that you can refer back to these details if there are problems in the future.
How can I arrange this?
If you would like to be referred for a specialist opinion, please make an appointment to see your doctor. Specialists will not normally accept patients referring themselves unless they are under an open followup arrangement. Insurers will usually not pay for specialist consultations unless you have been seen and referred by your doctor.
