GP Referral Letter
Get a private GP referral letter for specialist care, issued same-day by GMC-registered doctors online or in-clinic. Book today for dermatologist, cardiologist, orthopaedic referrals, and more.
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Connecting You to Expert Care, Faster
Private Referral Letters
DocTap offers verified referral letters from qualified GPs with NHS experience, accepted by private specialists and hospitals across the UK.
- GMC-registered GPs
Your doctor’s referral letter is written and issued by a qualified, NHS-experienced GP registered with the General Medical Council (GMC).
- Specialist Care Faster
Skip long waits. Book a GP appointment with DocTap today and receive your referral letter the same day, accessing private specialists faster.
- Verified Referrals
Specialists can verify your DocTap referral letter online in seconds, with your personal health details kept secure at all times.
- CQC-regulated Provider
DocTap is registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC), meeting national standards for patient safety, professionalism, and medical documentation.
What Is a GP Referral Letter?
A GP referral letter is an official document written by a doctor to support your move to further care. It explains your symptoms, relevant medical history, and the reason you need to see a specialist or have a specific test. Private clinics often ask for a referral letter so they have the right clinical information before your appointment.
With DocTap, you can book a short online or in-clinic appointment and get a referral letter from the GP the same day. Your letter includes your details, your GP’s signature, and a clear explanation of why specialist review is recommended. It can be used for common private referrals, including dermatology, physiotherapy, cardiology, orthopaedics, ENT, and diagnostic services.
Do You Need a GP Referral Letter?
You need a GP referral letter when a specialist or clinic asks for a doctor’s assessment before they can see you or arrange further tests. It outlines your symptoms and reason for referral for faster access to the right care.
- Referral to a specialist:
- Such as dermatology, cardiology, orthopaedics, or ENT. Your GP explains your symptoms so the specialist knows what to assess.
- Referral for scans or tests:
- MRI, ultrasound, X-ray, or hospital diagnostics often require a private GP referral letter before booking.
- Referral for physiotherapy:
- Some physiotherapists ask for a brief GP summary or doctor's referral to guide treatment safely.
- Referral for private hospital care:
- When you need faster assessment or treatment through a private hospital or clinic.
- Referral to gym:
- If you have certain health conditions or risk factors, a GP can issue a gym referral for a personalised exercise plan with an instructor.
Fast, Reliable Support at Every Stage
How to Get a Referral Letter
- 1Book a Private GP AppointmentBook online or visit one of our London clinics for a same-day GP appointment with a GMC-registered private doctor.
- 2Provide Medical DetailsIf you already have test results, past clinic letters, or details of your symptoms, bring for a quick, accurate referral to a specialist.
- 3Speak with a DocTap GPA DocTap GP will assess your condition and issue a referral to a specialist, hospital, or diagnostic service, depending on your needs.
- 4Get Your Referral Letter from the GPYour online referral letter will be uploaded to your DocTap account within an hour. In-clinic appointments can request a printed, signed copy.
Where to Get a Referral Letter
Canary Wharf
Situated by South Quay Footbridge, a 3-minute walk from Canary Wharf and Heron Quays stations.
Hammersmith
Situated on King Street, a 6-minute walk from Hammersmith underground stations.
Kings Cross & Euston
Located just off Euston Road, less than a 10-minute walk from both Euston and King’s Cross stations.
Liverpool Street & Bank
Located in the heart of the City, a 5-minute walk from Liverpool Street and Bank stations.
London Bridge
Located just off Borough High Street, an 8-minute walk from London Bridge station.
Bond Street
Located on Wigmore Street, just off Harley Street, a 7-minute walk from Bond Street station.
Clapham
Located on Clapham High Street, only a 3-minute walk from Clapham Common station.
Stratford
Located within The Conductor building, a 6-minute walk from Stratford station, or 3 minutes from the Westfield shopping centre.
Online GP
Speak to a GP by video or phone while you are in the UK — no app needed. Ideal for follow-ups and straightforward concerns.
Find a GP Clinic Near Me
Get a medical letter that moves your care forward. Our GPs provide same-day referral letters online or in our central London clinics, helping you access the specialist you need, when you need it.
Frequently asked questions
- Can a private GP write a referral letter for a consultant or scan?
Yes. If your GP thinks you need specialist care, imaging or further investigations, they can provide a private referral or advise on the most appropriate next step. This may include referrals for scans, imaging, specialist consultations or further tests where clinically appropriate.
- Does a private specialist referral letter cost extra?
Unlike other private GPs, the referral letter is issued free of charge with DocTap and is included in the appointment fee.
- Does DocTap arrange the specialist appointment for me?
We do not arrange the appointment with the doctor we refer you to. We will refer you to a private specialist and their booking team will be happy to assist with getting you an appointment.
- Will I pay separately for the specialist consultation or scan?
No. The fee of the consultant/specialist appointment is an external cost and payment will be organised outside of DocTap.
- Can DocTap refer me directly to an NHS specialist?
No, as a private GP we can not directly refer patients to NHS consultants or specialists. This includes the NHS 2 week wait service. Our doctors can write a letter to your NHS GP who may decide, on reading the letter to refer you to an NHS specialist.
Move Your Care Forward, Today
Whether you need a GP referral letter for diagnostics, physiotherapy, or dermatology, our doctors provide reliable referrals online or in clinic, helping you reach the right specialist sooner.