Specialists

The Royal Free Hospital

Pond Street,Pond Street,London, London NW3 2QG

Overview

The Royal Free Hospital is a major teaching hospital located in Hampstead, North London. It is part of the Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust and serves as a tertiary referral centre for the local population and patients across a wider geographical area. The hospital has a long and distinguished history, dating back to 1828, and has established itself as a centre of excellence in medical care and research.

The hospital provides a comprehensive range of acute medical and surgical services, including emergency care, general medicine, surgery, oncology, and specialist services. It is particularly renowned for its infectious diseases department, which has played a significant role in managing complex medical cases. The Royal Free also houses research facilities and is affiliated with University College London, supporting medical education and clinical research.

The hospital serves patients from across North London and beyond, operating as part of an integrated NHS trust that includes multiple healthcare facilities. It is easily accessible by public transport and offers a range of facilities including outpatient clinics, emergency services, and inpatient ward accommodation. As a major teaching hospital, it combines patient care with medical training and scientific research.

Frequently Asked Questions

Most specialist consultations at The Royal Free Hospital in London require a referral from your GP or another doctor. Your GP will refer you through the NHS e-Referral Service. For private patients, some specialists accept direct self-referrals — contact 020 3758 2000 to check. Under the NHS Constitution, you should start consultant-led treatment within 18 weeks of referral for non-urgent conditions.
The Royal Free Hospital provides specialist medical services which may include cardiology, dermatology, gastroenterology, neurology, orthopaedics, rheumatology, endocrinology, respiratory medicine, urology, ENT, ophthalmology, gynaecology, and other specialties. Contact 020 3758 2000 for a full list of specialists and services available at this clinic.
Many specialist clinics offer both NHS and private consultations. NHS appointments are free but may have longer waiting times. Private appointments offer faster access, flexible scheduling, and a choice of consultant, but fees apply. Contact 020 3758 2000 to ask about NHS availability and private consultation fees at The Royal Free Hospital.
For your first specialist appointment at The Royal Free Hospital, bring your referral letter, a list of current medications (or bring the medicines with you), any relevant test results, scans, or medical letters, a list of questions you want to ask, your NHS number, and photo ID if attending as a private patient. It helps to write down your symptoms, when they started, and how they affect your daily life.
Many specialists at The Royal Free Hospital now offer video or telephone consultations for initial assessments, follow-ups, and results discussions. Virtual consultations are convenient and reduce travel time. Not all conditions can be assessed remotely — if a physical examination is needed, you will be asked to attend in person. Ask about remote consultation options when booking.
Yes, you can seek a second opinion at The Royal Free Hospital. Under the NHS, you have the right to ask your GP for a referral to a different specialist. Privately, you can book directly. A second opinion can confirm a diagnosis, explore alternative treatment options, or provide reassurance. Bring all previous test results and clinic letters to the consultation.
Yes, under NHS Patient Choice you can choose which consultant to see when your GP refers you. For private patients, you can request a specific specialist. Consultant profiles with qualifications and specialisms are usually available on the clinic website. Your GP can also recommend a suitable specialist for your condition.
NHS waiting times at The Royal Free Hospital depend on the specialty and urgency. Two-week wait referrals (suspected cancer) are seen within 14 days. Routine referrals aim to be within 18 weeks. Private appointments can often be arranged within days. Contact 020 3758 2000 for current waiting times.
The Royal Free Hospital may offer on-site diagnostics including blood tests, ultrasound, ECG, spirometry, and other specialist tests. Some clinics also provide MRI, CT, and X-ray services. Having diagnostics on-site means faster results and fewer separate appointments. Ask about available diagnostic services when booking.
The Royal Free Hospital may be recognised by major UK health insurance providers. Contact your insurer to confirm coverage at The Royal Free Hospital, check your policy excess and benefit limits, and obtain a pre-authorisation code before your appointment. Bring your insurance details and authorisation to your first visit.
If a procedure is planned at The Royal Free Hospital, you will receive preparation instructions beforehand. This may include fasting requirements, medication adjustments, arranging transport home (if sedation is used), wearing comfortable clothing, and bringing a companion. A pre-assessment appointment may be arranged to check your fitness for the procedure. Follow all instructions carefully and contact 020 3758 2000 if you have questions.
After your consultation, the specialist will write to your GP with their findings, diagnosis, and recommended treatment plan. You may be booked for further tests, follow-up appointments, or referred for surgery or other treatment. For NHS patients, a copy of the clinic letter will be sent to you. Ask the specialist when to expect results and next steps before you leave.
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Contact Details
Address
Pond Street,Pond Street,London
London, London
NW3 2QG
Social Links
Opening Hours
Monday 08:00 - 18:00
Tuesday 08:00 - 18:00
Wednesday 08:00 - 18:00
Thursday 08:00 - 18:00
Friday 08:00 - 18:00
Saturday 09:00 - 17:00
Sunday 09:00 - 17:00
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