Frequently Asked Questions
Here you’ll find answers to the most frequently asked questions.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Appointments and Referrals
How do I make an appointment?
Usually appointments are requested by your GP. However you are welcome to make an appointment for yourself.
Do I need a referral from my GP?
No, you can make an appointment for yourself here. This can be a new, a follow or an urgent appointment.
How quickly can I get an appointment?
Routine appointments within a few weeks. Urgent ones in a few days, pending on availability. Check the waiting times here.
Can I have a video or a telephone consultation?
Of course. We can set up a simple telephone call or a video call over the internet. Zoom or FaceTime calls are preferred.
Where will my consultation take place?
Usually it is in Little Grove Clinic. Occasionally on Newgate Street Clinic in the hospital. You can discuss it with Natalie at the time of the booking confirmation
What should I bring to my appointment?
A list of your medication (if you have many) usually helps. Or any other relevant documents that you think will help the consultation.
Private Insurance or Self Funded appointments
Do I need authorisation from my Insurance Company before seeing you?
Yes, Insurance companies usually need to know in advance if you come to see me. They will give you an authorisation number that Natalie needs to know. You should have it before coming to the appointment but you can let Natalie know about it after.
Can I see you as a self-funding patient?
Of course. Please let Natalie know about it at the time of the booking.
How much does a consultation cost?
First consultation is £250. Follow up consultation is £200. Remote consultations (like over the phone) £175.
How much will my investigation or treatment will cost?
It varies greatly. If we proceed with any investigation and/or treatment and you are paying for it yourself, Natalie will always give you a quote first. You can then decide if you want to continue. We can always switch back to the public system if you change your mind.
Will the Insurer cover all the costs?
Some of the insurers, like BUPA do not cover the full amount. Insurers like AXA do. You should check with them. If they do not cover the full price which is clearly indicated in your appointment letter (if and when we proceed to an investigation or treatment) you will be asked to pay the shortfall.
Operations & Recovery
Where will my operation be performed?
In Jersey General Hospital. Depending on the procedure, you will be directed to Sorel Ward, the Day Surgery Unit or the Endoscopy Suit at Aubin Ward
Will I need to stay in the hospital after the procedure?
For most cases do not. The vast majority of the procedures are Day Cases. When your procedure will require overnight or several days of stay, we will discuss it when preparing for it.
How long will I need to stay off work after the procedure?
It depends. Diagnostic procedures like gastroscopy and colonoscopy only require one day off, but only if you have sedation. Surgical procedures will require 3-5-10 days or 3-4 weeks depending on the complexity of the intervention. It will be part of or discussion when preparing.
When can I drive after the operation?
It depends on the type of procedure. Your car insurance may have a small print on this too. After smaller interventions 1-3 days. More complex surgeries may require 2-3 weeks. Generally, as soon as you feel comfortable with the pedal work as you test yourself back at home, in a chair.
When can I exercise after my surgery?
Depends on the procedure. After small procedures almost immediately. After more complex surgeries light exercise (walking) is required daily right after your discharge. We will discuss returning to more strenuous exercise at your follow up.
Can I go in the sea/swimming pool after my surgery?
Let the wound heal first for about a week or 10 days before you swim. Sea or pool alike. If it was a surgery on the back passage, you can swim 3-4 days after the procedure.
What should I do if I have a problem after my surgery?
If the problem is urgent, life threatening, go the A&E at the hospital or call the Ambulance. If it is less urgent, call my office on 880030 or Sorel ward out of hours
What can I eat or drink after my procedure?
After gastroscopy or colonoscopy you can eat normal immediately. It is the same after less complex interventions like surgeries on the back passage or hernia operations. Recovery from gallbladder and bowel surgery may require a slower build up to full diet. Start with easily digestible food, small amounts, more frequently. Soups, white meat, mash potato. Or similar.