Should I go private for arthritis care in the UK?
NHS rheumatology provides the same specialist care and drugs as private, at no cost — but waiting times for a first appointment can be 12-30 weeks. Private consultations (£150-300) get you seen within days, but ongoing NHS care is usually still the destination for DMARDs and biologics because private prescriptions are expensive. A common practical route: private consultation to get diagnosed and started faster, then transfer to NHS for long-term treatment.
Last updated 2026-07-04. This is general information, not a substitute for personalised medical advice.
Frequently asked questions
When would you pick NHS rheumatology?
Long-term treatment; DMARDs and biologics (very expensive privately); ongoing follow-up.
When would you pick Private rheumatology?
Urgent diagnosis; second opinion; you can't wait 3-6 months for a first appointment.
What should I be careful about?
Ask any private consultant whether they also work in the NHS — many do, and this makes NHS transfer smoother.