Frequently asked questions
Do I have to pay for private prescription?
We can issue private prescriptions for HRT, vaginal oestrogen, contraception and other related medication. We can also provide advice on HRT prices and current availability. The price of a private prescription is included in the first consultation. An alternative option is to see if your GP is happy to issue an NHS prescription.
Do you prescribe testosterone?
Yes, we are able to prescribe testosterone. Private blood tests are often needed to monitor the use of this.
Do you prescribe bioidentical HRT?
We do not prescribe bioidentical HRT as this is a term used for HRT that is not licensed or regulated. The oestrogen and progesterone we will prescribe are usually freely available on the NHS and are recommended by NICE and the British Menopause Society.
Am I covered by private health insurance?
Usually, insurance providers do not cover the costs of menopause care or treatment. However, there are exceptions to this and so it is worth checking with your insurance company as some may cover a private GP appointment.
Do you offer online appointments?
Online and face to face appointments are both available.
Do you do repeat prescriptions?
We can see you for a review appointment at 3 months, following your initial consultation, in order for repeat prescriptions to be set up. Please note, repeat prescriptions are subject to a £30 administration fee.
Can you insert the Mirena coil?
We fit the mirena coil in clinic.
How is my data stored?
All personal and medical information is encrypted and stored remotely in the cloud by a specialised patient management system (HeyDoc).
What are the advantages of a private appointment?
It’s very difficult to provide a full assessment and treatment plan with a patient in the time available in an NHS appointment.
Dr Sam has specialist training in addition to her GP qualifications to provide an in-depth knowledge of the pros and cons of HRT. She is confident in prescribing this and recommending alternatives to help your quality of life.
Will my GP be made aware of my appointment?
A detailed letter will be sent to you via secure email after your appointment detailing the consultation and agreed plan for treatment and this can be shared with your GP.
What shall I bring?
The clinic will send a pre-consultation questionnaire to you before your appointment and if you have a summary of your medical record or recent blood pressure, height, weight and blood tests, this would be useful to share.
Does the price of the appointment include blood tests?
Hormone levels can vary enormously during the menopause and are an unreliable way of diagnosing. NICE guidance is clear that women over the age of 45 do not need hormone blood tests if they have symptoms so these will rarely be suggested. If blood tests are needed, we can ask that these are done through your GP or arrange for these to be done privately.
What qualifications, memberships or past experience does Dr Sam have?
She is a member of The British Menopause Society (BMS), The International Menopause Society, The Primary Care Women’s Health Forum, a Diplomate of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (DRCOG) and The Faculty of Sexual and Reproductive Healthcare (DFSRH).
She has the Advanced Certificate in the Principles and Practice of Menopause Care and is also a trainer for The British Menopause Society.
She passed the Royal College of General Practice exams with distinction in 2004.
Is there disabled access?
The clinic has step access so is difficult to access in a wheelchair but please email us and we hope we can help you with an online appointment.
