What a Private Orthopaedic Consultation Really Costs in the UK (2026)
Last updated 31 August 2026
Knee, hip, shoulder or back trouble that isn't improving on its own is a common reason people go private for an orthopaedic opinion, mainly to be seen and get a plan sooner than an NHS referral would allow.
Quick answer: based on clinics currently listed on Keystone, a private orthopaedic consultation costs from £150 to £330, with a typical price around £250. As with other consultant appointments, the exact fee depends on who you see and where.
What actually drives the price difference
- Who you see. A consultant orthopaedic surgeon with a specific sub-specialty, such as knees or shoulders, may charge more than a general orthopaedic consultant.
- Location. Central London clinics tend to sit at the higher end compared with practices elsewhere.
- Whether imaging is included. Some consultations include an on-the-day X-ray or scan review; others quote the consultation alone and price imaging separately.
- First appointment vs follow-up. A follow-up consultation, once your case history is already known, is usually cheaper than the initial assessment.
What UK clinics are currently charging
This is a smaller sample than most of our guides: 4 clinics currently list a specific orthopaedic consultation price on Keystone, running from £150 to £330, with prices typically falling between £200 and £330. Treat this as an early indication rather than a full market picture, and compare a few clinics directly for the most current pricing.
Compare private orthopaedic consultations near you
Search your postcode on Keystone to see clinics offering orthopaedic consultations near you, ranked by distance, price and patient rating, and request an appointment directly.
Curious what clinics near you actually charge? Compare real prices, distances and ratings.
Compare private orthopaedic consultations near you →Frequently asked questions
How much does a private orthopaedic consultation cost in the UK?
Based on clinics currently listed on Keystone, a consultation costs from £150 to £330, typically around £250. Who you see and whether imaging is included both affect the final price.
Do I need a GP referral to see a private orthopaedic consultant?
Most private orthopaedic consultants accept self-referral, so you can usually book directly without going through your GP first, though some prefer a referral letter. Check with the clinic when you book.
Will I need a scan as well as a consultation?
Often, yes, for anything beyond a straightforward diagnosis. Some clinics include imaging like an X-ray in the initial visit, while an MRI or more detailed scan is usually arranged and priced separately.
How quickly can I be seen privately compared with the NHS?
Private orthopaedic consultations are typically available within days to a couple of weeks, considerably faster than a routine NHS referral, which is the main reason people choose to go private for this.