Nicky Whitfield

Questions

 

1. Do I need a Doctor's referral in order to be seen?

You are able to self refer for any communication difficulties you may have. If you have a voice disorder I will need evidence that you have seen an Ear Noise and Throat Consultant in the last 6 months. If you would like help with swallowing difficulties I will need a referral from a GP or a Consultant.  This complies with established best practice.

 

 

2. How soon can I be seen?

I will aim to see you within 2 weeks of your initial enquiry.

 

 

3. Can I be seen at home?

Appointments can be arranged at the client's own home or at my home near Wiston, located in the centre of Pembrokeshire, or via Skype.

 

 

4. Can you see me if I am still in hospital?

With your Consultant's written permission, I am able to provide assessment and therapy whilst you are in hospital to either 'top up' current NHS provision or to provide the Speech & Language Therapy service you need.

 

 

5. How far are you willing to travel?

I am happy to consider travelling any distance within South, Mid and West Wales.  

 

 

6. Do you charge for mileage?

On all journeys I charge 50p per mile for the return journey from my home (the current AA recommendation is 56p per mile). For example, a 20-mile return journey would cost £10.

 

7. Do you charge for your travelling time?

There is no charge for the first 50 minutes of the return journey. There is a £5 charge for every 10 minutes thereafter.

 

8. Does having private therapy affect the service I will receive in the NHS?

Having private therapy will not adversely affect any SLT service you may be receiving in the NHS.  I have strong links with my NHS colleagues in the Health Board and I follow the standards outlined by the Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists regarding working together for the clients benefit.

 

 

9. How long do therapy sessions last?

The initial assessment session usually lasts around 1-1.5 hours. A report can be provided on request detailing the assessment findings. Therapy sessions normally last one hour however 30-minute sessions can be arranged if felt more appropriate.

 

Therapy is led by the client’s individual goals and can focus for example on returning to work, hobbies or their role within the family.  Input may include information, strategies or exercises.

 

 

10. What if I need to cancel an appointment?

Please try to contact me 24 hours before the scheduled appointment.  You can email or leave a message on the answer phone. Cancellations made within 24 hours of the appointment time will incur a charge.

 

 

11. How much does it cost?

Charges vary depending on where you are seen (at home or in clinic) and what type of session is required. Please contact me for more information. At every stage you will be provided with an estimate of the charges involved to avoid any unexpected costs.

 

 

12. What do I need to do if I have private health insurance?

If you have private insurance with Bupa, AXA/PPP or Aviva please obtain a Pre-Authorisation number from the Company prior to receiving any private Speech and Language Therapy input. Following therapy I will invoice your Insurance Company directly to receive payment.

 

 

13. How do I pay?

Please pay at the end of every session. I am able to accept cash or cheque payments. Alternatively, my account details are included on every invoice for your convenience should you wish to pay by BACS transfer.