How Can We Help?
We have put together some frequently asked questions below, which we hope will answer your queries. If there is anything else you want to know that is not covered in this website, please either telephone us on 020 8861 1221 or email us at info@harrowhealthcare.co.uk
How do I make an appointment?
Just call our Receptionist on 020 8861 1221 and she will make an appointment for you with a doctor, nurse or therapist at a time to suit you.
The Dental Practice and Psychologist make their own appointments and their contact numbers are listed in their service information.
How long is a consultation?
We offer a standard 15 minute consultation for minor illnesses, such as sore throats, fevers or sudden infections. A longer consultation, which may last up to 30 minutes, is recommended for other, more complex problems.
What if I need to have tests done or see a specialist?
We offer a full range of diagnostic investigations - such as ECGs, urine tests, lung function tests and all blood tests. All tests are sent out to the laboratory the same day and results are reported to you without delay. If a consultant opinion is required, we can refer you either into the private sector or the NHS. Seeing us as a private patient does not compromise your eligibility for NHS care.
How confidential will my visit be?
For patients who have registered with us as members, we act as your GP. For all other patients, who are not members, we provide you with a short report at the end of your consultation to give to your own GP. If appropriate a longer report may be provided within a few days. We will always recommend you allow us to let your own doctor know what we have suggested, so that your ongoing care is not compromised in any way, but we will never write to your GP without your consent.
Where do I get my prescription dispensed?
We have our own on-site Pharmacy to dispense your medication immediately after you have seen one of our doctors or nurses. If you have to wait a few moments, you can do so in comfort with a cup of freshly brewed coffee.
How and when do I pay for my consultation?
You will be given an invoice to pay at the time of your visit. We accept cash, cheques with an appropriate guarantee card, as well as Electron, Maestro, Solo and Visa debit cards. We also accept MasterCard and Visa credit cards.
If you join one of our membership schemes then all your consultations may be included in your fee.
Will my visit be covered by private health insurance?
Private insurance companies do not usually cover patients for GP consultations, but they may pay for some investigations. This depends on the terms of your individual policy. If you think you may wish to claim back the costs of your visit and any tests we may carry out and which you will pay for at your consultation, please check with your Insurance Company before you come to see us. We can provide you with a receipted invoice for these.
Do I need to be a member to see a private GP at the Centre?
Whilst we believe membership provides the best framework for continuity of care, we are happy to see patients who find it difficult to see their own local GP. We also see individuals who are not eligible for NHS care and visitors from abroad, who may need to see a doctor urgently.
What are the benefits of becoming a Member?
The majority of our patients belong to annual membership schemes which provide guaranteed access to a doctor 24 hours a day 7 days a week. We have a choice of membership schemes, one of which covers consultations with your doctor during surgery hours for a fixed annual fee. We encourage all our patients to attend for a new patient health assessment, during which we explore any current and previous health problems, lifestyle factors and advise on screening.
Thinking about joining our Practice?
In addition to our new patient health assessment, we include in the subscription fee for the over 40s the cost of an annual health review.
What is special about the Harrow Health Care Centre?
We are a traditional Family Practice. We have four doctors, a team of practice nurses, and pharmacists. Harrow Health Care Centre was founded in 1982 as the first independent GP surgery in England, to offer patients' membership schemes with round the clock care for the whole family within a one-stop facility.
We specialise in developing a relationship of understanding and trust between doctor and patient. We believe this is best achieved within a membership scheme. We offer a first class service and continuity of care for patients who have the option of returning to see the same doctor for future visits. All our staff are committed to providing modern medical treatment and care to the highest standards alongside traditional values of courtesy and respect.
How do I know I can trust the standard of care I will receive?
We are regulated and registered by the Care Quality Commission who have a rigorous code of practice and standards for General Practice in the Private Sector. Our staff have enhanced CRB disclosures.
What happens if I need hospital care and cannot afford to pay for it?
Unless you are a visitor from abroad and are not eligible to receive NHS treatment, by coming to a private GP practice you do not lose your rights to be referred back into the NHS at any time.
Can I obtain travel health advice over the telephone?
As every patient's needs vary, depending on both your personal circumstances and exactly where you are travelling to, our nurses are unable to give you travel health advice over the telephone. For more information about our travel clinic and information websites click here.
Drug Addiction Treatment
It is the Practice's policy that we do not see or treat patients who have a drug addiction.