Question 1

What is respiratory medicine?

Accepted Answer

Respiratory medicine is a medical specialty focused on diagnosing and treating diseases and conditions affecting the lungs and respiratory system. This includes conditions like asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), lung infections, interstitial lung disease, and more.

Question 2

How can I improve my lung health?

Accepted Answer

To improve lung health, avoid smoking, stay physically active, maintain a healthy diet, avoid exposure to pollutants, and get regular check-ups. Breathing exercises and staying hydrated can also help maintain healthy lungs.

Question 3

I want to leave feedback on my experience - how can I do this?

Accepted Answer

We hope you were happy with the care and treatment you received. Feedback would not only help our practice, but many other patients in the future. We have 2 short feedback forms, each one only takes 30 seconds. Simply click the links:

[TopDoctors](https://www.topdoctors.co.uk/reviewme/c3VuaWwtcGF0ZWwmJmRvY3RvciYmNA==)
[Doctify](https://www.doctify.com/uk/review/9MHe87)

Repeat feedback is also appreciated even if you have already completed the links for your initial consultation.

Question 4

Do I need a referral from my GP to see you?

Accepted Answer

Self-referrals are welcomed for private consultations. However, if you intend to use private medical insurance, your provider may request a GP referral prior to your appointment.

Question 5

How soon can I be seen?

Accepted Answer

We offer multiple clinic locations each week. If clinics are full, or the date is not suitable for you, we will strive to create extra slots to accommodate you and your schedule.

Question 6

Do I need to prepare anything before my appointment with you?

Accepted Answer

Feel free to bring a list of your current medications, any previous test results (if available), and a diary of your symptoms. It's helpful to write down any questions or concerns in advance. You can provide all of this information via email if that suits you.

Question 7

What do I do if I have private medical insurance?

Accepted Answer

If you have private medical insurance please contact your insurer before your consultation to check the terms of your policy, particularly the level and type of cover you have (including any reimbursement limits on individual consultation fees). Please provide your insurance membership number and pre-authorisation number when it is available. Dr Patel is recognised by most private medical insurance companies. Please note you are responsible for any fees not covered by your insurer.

If you are using your health insurance policy for the first time, there may be a policy excess to pay and this is often paid directly to the healthcare professional you are seeing. For example, if your policy has an excess of £150.00 and your consultation fee was charged at £190.00, you would pay £150.00 directly to your consultant and your health insurance provider would pay the remaining £40.00 directly to your consultant. If you are not sure if you have an excess due, please speak directly to your insurance provider.

Question 8

What is the process for outpatient respiratory care?

Accepted Answer

My approach is centred on providing clear, personalised, and evidence-based care at every stage. This begins with a thorough consultation to understand your symptoms and concerns, followed by targeted diagnostic investigations where appropriate. The findings are then carefully discussed with you, and a tailored management plan is agreed collaboratively.

Throughout this process, I prioritise clear communication, continuity, and accessibility—ensuring you remain fully informed, supported, and confident in your care at all times.

Question 9

What should I expect at my first consultation?

Accepted Answer

You will be warmly welcomed to our clinic. Dr Patel will spend up to 30 minutes discussing your clinical history and symptoms. A physical examination is required on your initial visit. You can request a chaperone for this — please just ask. Following this, Dr Patel will make a management plan which may include diagnostic tests and planning for a further consultation if required

Question 10

I have to change my appointment, how do I do this?

Accepted Answer

You can change your appointment details anytime via the patient portal. Alternatively, you can call, email or WhatsApp the practice anytime to inform us. Please note, cancellations less than 24 hours before a confirmed appointment may incur a cancellation fee.

Question 11

Do you offer video and telephone consultations?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Dr Patel can offer consultations via telephone or video (virtual consultations). Video consultations are held on our secure platform and a joining link will be sent on the day of the appointment (usually 4-6 hours before). Please note, virtual consultations can only take place if agreed with Dr Patel first.

Question 12

Can I be seen at a different location to my initial consultation?

Accepted Answer

Yes - Dr Patel can see you at any of the listed locations, but please check with your insurance provider that the specific clinic is covered on your policy.

Question 13

How much do consultations cost?

Accepted Answer

If you hold private medical insurance, your provider will typically have pre-agreed consultation fees. We will liaise directly with your insurer and submit claims on your behalf. In some cases, a policy excess may apply, which is payable by you directly. Should this be required, both our practice and your insurer will notify you in advance.

For self-funding patients, consultation fees are £255 for an initial appointment and £205 for follow-up consultations, including virtual appointments.

Question 14

I have been discharged but have a concern or question.

Accepted Answer

No problem. Just get in touch via phone, e-mail or WhatsApp and we will get right back to you. You will not have to re-register with us but you may need another GP referral and you will need to let your medical insurance provider know too.

Question 15

Cancellation Policy

Accepted Answer

Should you cancel your appointment with less than 24 hours notice, a cancellation fee of 100% of the self-paid appointment fee will be charged to you. For appointments on a Monday, we must receive notification before 12:00 on the preceding Friday. Please note that most insurers do not cover cancellation fees and you would be invoiced directly for this.

Question 16

Do you offer second opinions?

Accepted Answer

Yes, second opinions are welcomed. This can provide reassurance, confirm a diagnosis, or offer additional perspectives on management options.

Question 17

What conditions does a respiratory specialist treat?

Accepted Answer

Respiratory specialists manage conditions affecting the lungs and breathing. This includes asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), lung infections, interstitial lung disease, sleep apnoea, pulmonary fibrosis, bronchiectasis, tuberculosis, lung cancer, and unexplained breathlessness.

Question 18

What are common symptoms of a respiratory illness?

Accepted Answer

Common symptoms include persistent cough, shortness of breath, wheezing, chest tightness, recurrent chest infections, coughing up blood, or suspected sleep apnoea.

You can listen to my podcast on “the persistent cough” via the link below.

Question 19

What are the signs of a serious respiratory condition?

Accepted Answer

Signs of a serious respiratory condition include persistent cough, shortness of breath, chest pain, wheezing, coughing up blood, and unexplained weight loss. If you experience any of these symptoms, it's important to seek medical attention promptly.

Question 20

I have been prescribed an inhaler, how do I use it?

Accepted Answer

Using your inhaler correctly ensures the medication reaches your lungs effectively. Before use, remove the cap, check the mouthpiece is clear, and shake the inhaler if required. Breathe out gently, seal your lips around the mouthpiece, and inhale steadily and deeply (or quickly for dry powder inhalers) as you activate the device. Hold your breath for up to 10 seconds, then breathe out slowly.

If a second dose is needed, wait around 30 seconds before repeating. Spacer devices can improve delivery for pressurised inhalers. It is important to take your inhaler exactly as prescribed—relievers for symptoms and preventers regularly to maintain control.

If your inhaler contains a steroid, rinse your mouth after use.

For step-by-step demonstrations, visit: https://www.asthmaandlung.org.uk/living-with/inhaler-videos

Question 21

What tests are commonly performed by a respiratory specialist?

Accepted Answer

Common tests include:

• Blood tests (can range from basic tests to wider panel of specialist blood tests)
• Lung function tests (commonly performed in a dedicated laboratory)
• Chest X-rays and CT scans
• Sleep studies (for suspected sleep apnoea)
• Allergy testing (if asthma is suspected) including blood tests and skin prick tests
• Sputum (mucus) analysis if you are able to provide a sample
• Ultrasound of your chest
• Bronchoscopy — an invasive camera test of your lungs

Question 22

Are there any additional costs for tests or treatments?

Accepted Answer

Following your consultation, further investigations—such as blood tests or imaging (e.g. X-ray, MRI, or CT scan)—may be recommended to support diagnosis and management. Where these are carried out by a hospital or clinic rather than directly by Dr Patel, the fees will be set and charged separately by the relevant provider, either to you or your insurer.

If any additional fees are applicable for services provided by Dr Patel, these will be clearly communicated to you in advance. For example, interpretation and reporting of specialised tests, such as lung function assessments, may incur additional charges depending on the complexity of the investigation. Please note that some private medical insurers do not cover these fees, in which case they would be payable by you directly.

Question 23

What should I do before lung function tests?

Accepted Answer

To ensure accurate results from your lung function test, a small amount of preparation is recommended. You may be advised to withhold certain inhalers prior to your appointment—please follow any specific instructions provided. Avoid smoking for at least 24 hours and caffeine for four hours beforehand, as both can affect the results. Wear loose, comfortable clothing and avoid heavy meals or strenuous exercise immediately before your test. Please bring your current medications, including inhalers, and arrive on time for your appointment. If you are feeling unwell, particularly with a chest infection or cold, it is advisable to contact the clinic in advance as your test may need to be rescheduled.

Question 24

How do I receive my letters, test results and other correspondence?

Accepted Answer

Our practice uses a completely digital platform to issue clinic letters, appointment details and test results. Once a letter or report is ready, you will receive email notifications with a link to the document. You can access all of your information 24/7 on your patient portal.

https://s-patel-medical-services-limited.carebit.co/patients

Question 25

How do I collect an electronic prescription?

Accepted Answer

**SignatureRx**
Prescriptions issued via SignatureRx are provided as a secure electronic token sent to you by email or SMS. This can be presented at any UK pharmacy, where the pharmacist will access your prescription using the code and your date of birth, and dispense your medication accordingly. You may also choose to have your prescription fulfilled through a partner pharmacy for added convenience.

**Pharmacierge**
Prescriptions sent via Pharmacierge are managed directly by their pharmacy team. Once issued, Pharmacierge will contact you to arrange prompt and discreet delivery of your medication to your home or workplace. They can also provide guidance on your medication and coordinate ongoing prescription requests where needed.

If you have any concerns or questions - just contact the practice.

Frequently Asked Questions

General

Appointments

Conditions & Symptoms

Tests & Results