Planning Medical Care in London: What International Patients Should Prepare Before Travelling

Many of my patients travel to London specifically for medical care, whether for a second opinion, specialist treatment, a comprehensive health assessment, or ongoing management of a complex condition. Making the most of that time starts well before you board the flight. In this guide I explain what to prepare so your consultations in London are as thorough and productive as possible.

Clarify what you need before you travel

The single most important step is being clear about what you want from your visit. This sounds obvious, but in practice many patients arrive without having articulated their main questions. Before you travel, write down:

• Your primary concern or reason for seeking care in London
• What you hope to learn or achieve during the visit
• Any specific questions you want answered
• Whether you are looking for a diagnosis, a second opinion, a treatment plan, or ongoing care coordination

Sharing this with your doctor before the appointment, by email or through a pre-consultation form, allows them to prepare and make the best use of your time together.

Gather your medical records

Your UK doctor will not have access to your medical records from home unless you bring them. The more complete your documentation, the more accurate and efficient your assessment will be. Aim to bring:

• A summary of your medical history, including past diagnoses, surgeries and hospitalisations
• A current medication list with exact names, doses and how long you have been taking each one
• Recent blood test results, ideally from the last 6 to 12 months
• Imaging reports and, where possible, the actual images (CT, MRI, ultrasound, X-ray) on CD or via a digital sharing link
• Specialist letters, discharge summaries and clinic notes from any relevant consultations
• Pathology or biopsy reports if applicable
• A record of any allergies or adverse drug reactions

If your records are in a language other than English, having them translated in advance (even a summary) is extremely helpful. Some practices can arrange translation, but this takes time and may delay your care.

Medication considerations

Bring enough of your current medications to last your entire stay, plus a few extra days in case of travel delays. Keep them in their original packaging with the pharmacy label. Some medications available in your home country may not be licensed in the UK, or may be known by a different name. A clear medication list avoids confusion and ensures your UK doctor can check for interactions before prescribing anything new.

If you take controlled medications (such as certain painkillers, ADHD medications or sedatives), check UK import rules in advance, as you may need a letter from your prescribing doctor.

Making contact before you arrive

Reaching out to your London-based doctor or practice before you travel makes a significant difference. A pre-arrival conversation or email exchange allows your doctor to review your records, identify what investigations might be needed, and plan the consultation efficiently. It also helps manage expectations: some tests take time to process, and if your doctor knows what you need in advance, they can schedule appropriately rather than discovering mid-consultation that a key investigation will not be ready before you leave.

Many private practices, including mine, offer a pre-arrival coordination service for international patients, helping to plan your schedule of appointments, tests and follow-up before you arrive.

What happens when you arrive in the UK

Your first consultation will typically be longer than a standard appointment, allowing time to review your history, examine you, discuss your concerns in depth and agree a plan. Depending on your needs, your doctor may arrange blood tests, imaging, referrals to London-based specialists, or other investigations during your stay. Results can often be turned around within days in the private sector.

If you need ongoing care after returning home, your UK doctor can provide a detailed report and treatment plan for your local physician, ensuring continuity. Follow-up consultations can often be conducted online after you leave.

Insurance and payment

Private healthcare in the UK is paid for directly or through international health insurance. If you have insurance, check your policy to confirm what is covered (consultations, diagnostics, specialist referrals, hospital admission) and whether you need pre-authorisation. Ask your practice about their fees in advance so there are no surprises. You can view my fee schedule for full transparency.

Choosing the right doctor

When selecting a doctor in London, look for:

• GMC registration: all doctors practising in the UK must be registered with the General Medical Council. You can verify any doctor on the GMC register.
• Relevant specialist qualifications and experience in the area you need help with
• CQC-registered practice: the Care Quality Commission inspects and rates healthcare providers in England
• Experience with international patients and willingness to coordinate with your home-country doctors
• Clear, upfront communication about fees, timelines and what to expect

A checklist before you travel

• Written summary of your main questions and goals for the visit
• Complete medical history document
• Current medication list with doses
• Recent blood test and imaging results (digital copies preferred)
• Specialist letters and discharge summaries
• Allergy and adverse reaction record
• Travel insurance or international health insurance details
• Pre-arrival contact with your London-based doctor or practice
• Enough medication to cover your stay plus a buffer
• Translated records if your documents are not in English

“The patients who get the most out of their London consultations are the ones who prepare well. A little time spent gathering your records and clarifying your questions can transform the quality of care you receive.”

Dr Itunu Johnson

Clinical content flagged for Dr Itunu Johnson's review before publication.

If you are planning to visit London for medical care and would like support with preparation and coordination, explore my international patient care service or get in touch.