Why a quote can differ between two clinics

Two clinics give you two totals for what sounds like the same treatment. One is lower. That does not tell you much yet, because the totals may not describe the same thing.

General information, not medical advice. A licensed professional can tell you what your own case needs.

What can sit behind a different total

• Who treats you. A more senior or more specialised practitioner may be priced differently from another.
• What is assessed first. A quote can include or exclude the consultation, scans or tests.
• What is used. Materials, products and equipment vary. Ask for the type and where it comes from, without needing a brand name.
• How many visits. Some quotes cover one visit, others a course.
• Aftercare and follow-up. Check what is included, and for how long.
• Extras. Anaesthetic, medication, lab work or a repeat visit may be listed separately.
• Overheads and location. These change what a clinic charges, and say nothing on their own about quality or safety.

Questions to ask your clinic

1. What exactly does this quote include?
2. What could be added later, and how would I be told first?
3. Who will treat me, and what is their licence?
4. How many visits does this cover?
5. What follow-up is included?

A rule for comparing

Put both quotes next to each other and match each line. Where a line is missing from one quote, ask the clinic to confirm in writing whether it is included. Decide only when both lists describe the same treatment.

Before you compare, run the licence routine on each clinic, or start from the clinic directory. A lower total from a clinic you cannot verify is not a comparison.