Frequently Asked Questions
1How do I book an appointment with Dr Monica Chogle?
You can book an appointment with Dr Monica Chogle by contacting Kingsbridge Private Hospital
directly via this link [Dr Monica Chogle] or by phone at 028 90667878. Appointments at Medical Associates can be booked via their booking line at 028 90382202.
2How do I book an appointment with Dr Niranjan Chogle?
Appointments with Dr Niranjan Chogle can be arranged by contacting the Ulster Independent Clinic booking line at 028 90661212. Appointments at Kingsbridge Private Hospital can be booked via the website [Dr Niranjan Chogle] or by calling 028 90667878.
3Do you treat medically insured patients?
Yes, we welcome medically insured patients. Please check with your insurer regarding coverage and referral requirements. We accept BUPA, AXA, AVIVA, Vitality, H3, and WPA.
4What are your consultation fees?
Initial Consultation: GBP 250
Review Consultation: GBP 180
5Do I need a referral letter?
A referral is preferred, particularly for insured patients or if your treatment plan involves GP prescriptions. Referrals from surgeons, rheumatologists, or physiotherapists are helpful for complex cases or when a specific treatment is required.
6Can I make preliminary enquiries with the consultant?
Yes, through our enquiry form. We aim to respond within 10 working days. A comprehensive bio-psycho-social assessment is necessary before recommending a treatment plan.
7What do I need to bring to my first appointment?
Referral letter (if applicable), List of current medications and allergies, Questions for your doctor, Copies of MRIs, blood tests, and previous letters, Insurance details (if applicable)
8What to expect at your first consultation:
We follow a bio-psycho-social approach. We will ask about your symptoms, pain locations, duration,
aggravating/relieving factors, previous treatments, and how pain affects daily life, mood, sleep, and
energy levels. You may be asked to complete a questionnaire and pain diagram.
9Can I bring someone to the appointment?
Yes, and we encourage it. If a procedure is planned for that day, please arrange for someone to drive
you home.
10Will I receive a procedure on the day of my first appointment?
Generally not. Most procedures are scheduled for a future date. Occasionally, simple procedures may be offered during the clinic visit, but this is not standard practice.
11Will I need to give consent before my procedure?
Yes, written consent is required. Make sure to ask any questions if you're unsure about anything.
12Do Pain Procedures Carry a Risk, and How Can Risk Be Minimized?
Yes — like all medical treatments, and even many everyday activities such as driving, skiing, or swimming, pain procedures carry some degree of risk. However, it's important to remember that these procedures are carefully performed by experienced specialists, using techniques that are evidence-based and widely accepted in clinical practice.
13Understanding risk is personal.
How you perceive risk depends on your personality, your previous experiences, and the stories you’ve heard from people around you. Some individuals are naturally more cautious, while others are comfortable with a higher degree of uncertainty. It’s also common to be influenced by media reports or conversations with friends and family.
14Can I drive on the day of my procedure?
It is advised to arrange transport, especially if sedation is used.
15What if I feel unwell or have an infection before my procedure?
Contact us immediately. Your procedure may need to be rescheduled.
16Do I need to fast before my procedure?
This depends on the type of procedure and whether sedation is used. Instructions will be provided.
17Will I receive sedation or general anaesthesia?
Most procedures are under local anaesthesia. Sedation may be offered in hospital-based settings but
not in the clinic. General anaesthesia is not used.
18What if I receive a vaccine close to my steroid injection?
Avoid steroid injections within 2 weeks before or after a vaccine. Discuss timing with us.
19Will pain procedures always work?
Effectiveness varies. Many patients benefit, but results can differ.
20Will a private consultation expedite NHS treatment?
No. Private care does not speed up NHS access. You may return to the NHS at any time, and we can refer you to your local pain clinic.