The following text explains what a new patient can expect from their first consultation visit to the Clinic.

Dr Julian Kenyon explains - When we see a patient for the first time, we will often have already had some email or telephone contact with that particular patient and therefore we may have some detailed idea of what the presenting problem might be.

We read in detail the patient history form and any previous correspondence, and then we discuss the history in detail with the patient and take relevant notes.

Following this a general physical examination is carried out, focusing on appropriate areas, depending on the presenting problem.

Following this we generally look at a live sample of blood taken as a pin prick, using Live Blood Analysis and in simple terms this assesses inflammatory activity, and the status of the patient s immune system. This is a very simple test, is relatively quick and is cheaper than carrying out specific laboratory tests to measure each of these parameters.

Following this, a treatment approach is then discussed with the patient. This may or may not include the use of the Oberon device which looks at organ function (not structure, this is not an MRI or CT scan), it is to give some guidance for the most appropriate collection of medications to prescribe for the patient. At this time, conventional laboratory blood tests might be suggested, dependent upon the particular case, and further investigations may be proposed. It is also possible that in some cases, highly specialised laboratory based investigation may be suggested.

We would look at current standard treatments the patient may be having, and we would generally suggest writing to the other doctors involved in the case. We would also look at the best ways of integrating our care with current conventional treatment approaches.

Generally speaking, at the end of the consultation, a detailed email is dictated, summarising the patient s problem, and our suggestions on how this problem might be dealt with.

Subsequent appointments are factored in, depending upon the nature of the problem. In some instances the patient may come back in a month s time, in many instances patients come back after 2 or 3 months and in some long-term patients, the patient may only be seen every 4 months. At each subsequent appointment, modifications in treatment approach are discussed and actioned, dependent upon the clinical response.

Generally speaking, at a subsequent appointment to the initial consultation a letter is written to the patient s GP and / or hospital specialist. (and depending on the appropriateness of patient and/or problem). This is subject to the patient s agreement where it is appropriate to do so considering both the patient and the problem.

Terms and conditions: Invoices must be settled at the time of appointment as treatment programmes will not be started until payment has been received. Our VAT No. is 760136453. All cheques made payable to The Dove Clinic Ltd.

The Dove Clinic does not offer treatments which are funded directly by insurance companies; although some consultation and/or treatment fees may be eligible for cover under certain policies. Most insurance companies do not pay for medication though. Any agreement for reimbursement is solely a matter between the insurance company and the patient and the patient needs to be clear about what is and isn't covered before consultation or treatment. It is the patient's responsibility to meet the cost of treatment at the time of appointment and to seek reimbursement subsequently. For any documentation to support an insurance claim, please talk to our reception team.

Alternatively, you may be able to come to the Dove Clinic as a NHS patient. This depends on your GP being willing to submit a funding application to his or her Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG), and the CCG being willing to agree to the request. Please discuss this with your GP .