General
Where is the Clinic - and how do I get there?
The Ulster Independent Clinic is on the intersection between the Stranmillis Road and Malone Road in Belfast.
By car from M1 Motorway
- From the M1 take exit at Junction 2 for A55 Outer Ring / Balmoral / Bangor / Newtownards.
- Continue through two sets of traffic lights and under railway bridge and through a third set of lights to Balmoral Avenue.
- Continue along Balmoral Avenue to junction with the Malone Road.
- Take the slip road on the left on to the Malone Road.
- Move into the outside lane in preparation for turning right onto the Stranmillis Road at the lights.
- The Ulster Independent Clinic is clearly signposted on the left.
By car from M2 Motorway
- Follow signposts for the Westlink/M1 from the M2.
- Take the exit at Junction 2 for A55 Outer Ring / Balmoral / Bangor/ Newtownards.
- Continue through two sets of traffic lights and under railway bridge and through a third set of lights to Balmoral Avenue.
- Continue along Balmoral Avenue to the junction with the Malone Road.
- Take the slip road on the left on to the Malone Road.
- Move into the outside lane in preparation for turning right onto the Stranmillis Road at the lights.
- The Ulster Independent Clinic is clearly signposted on the left.
By car from Belfast city centre
- From Queen’s University keep in the left-hand lane.
- Continue uphill to Stranmillis and past Ulster Museum.
- Continue through Stranmillis Village.
- At roundabout, take 3 exit sign posted for M1.
- Continue along Stranmillis Road.
- Ulster Independent Clinic is last entrance on the right just before the traffic lights.
By bus
The nearest bus stop is 5-10 minutes’ walk from the Clinic. From Donegall Square East in the city centre take either number 8A for Stranmillis or numbers 8B, 8C for Malone.
By train
The nearest train station is Botanic Station. It is a 30-minute walk/10 minute taxi journey from the Clinic.
How do I make an Outpatient appointment?
You will need a referral letter from your GP before you make an appointment to see a consultant at the Clinic. Once your GP has referred you, contact us on 028 9068 7444 to make an appointment with a consultant of your choice.
How do I choose a consultant?
There are over 400 consultants covering a wide range of specialties available for private consultation at the Ulster Independent Clinic. Your GP should be able to advise you on which Consultant would be most suitable for your specific condition.
How long will I have to wait for an appointment to see a consultant?
Waiting times vary but on average you will be able to see a consultant within 7-14 days.
Can I use my private insurance?
Yes, The Ulster Independent Clinic accepts payment from all major insurance companies. Please feel free to contact our Finance Department on 028 9066 1212, should you have any queries.
What information from my insurance company do I need to bring to hospital?
You should check that your insurance company is prepared to cover the cost of your treatment before making an appointment with a Consultant. Once you have seen a Consultant and your treatment has been confirmed, you will be given a procedure code from the Consultant. Contact the insurance company with this procedure code and they will issue you with a pre-authorisation reference or a claim form. You will need to bring the pre-authorisation reference or claim form with you to the Clinic. Please note that some claim forms will require a GP signature.
Are invoices for treatment sent directly to my insurance company?
Yes, the Ulster Independent Clinic will send invoices for your treatment and hospital stay directly to your insurance company. However, your Consultant, Surgeon and Anesthetist will send you invoices personally – it is your responsibility to forward these to the insurers for payment.
How do I pay for an appointment with a consultant?
Your consultant will send you an invoice following your consultation. You should send this invoice to your insurance provider for settlement.
Patients
What do I need to bring for a stay at the Clinic?
- Nightwear
- Dressing Gown
- Slippers
- Toiletries – towels are provided
- Any medication you are taking in the original packaging
- X-rays or scans that you have been given
- Books, magazines
Can I have breakfast on the morning of my planned procedure?
Before you come to the Clinic for a procedure you will receive a letter from us with instructions about what you can eat or drink beforehand.
What should I do if I become unwell before my planned procedure?
If you become unwell before your admission with an unrelated illness such as a flu, a cold, chest infection, urinary tract infection, diarrhoea or vomiting please contact the clinic as soon as possible as it may be necessary to cancel or postpone your admission until you feel better.
Can I keep my make-up and jewellery on in theatre?
Prior to you operation you will need to remove any make-up and nail varnish, it may also be necessary to remove false nails for some procedures, you should clarify this with a member of the Clinic nursing team. You should leave your jewellery at home where possible, although you will be able to wear a wedding band in theatre if you wish.
Are towels provided?
Yes, fresh towels are provided daily.
Should I drive after day procedure?
You should not drive after a day procedure, it is important that you make arrangements for a family member or a friend to drive you home.
If I am worried or feel unwell immediately after discharge what should I do?
If you have any immediate concerns after discharge please call the Ulster Independent Clinic and speak to the Nurse in Charge who will contact your consultant if required. Tel: 028 9066 1212
Visitors
What are visiting times?
- Visiting is currently facilitated for 1-2 family members only between:
- 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm.
- Visiting outside of these hours may be arranged by contacting the Ward Sister.
Can I use my mobile phone?
Mobile phones must only be used in the privacy of private rooms, they are not permitted in the public areas.
Can I bring a child to visit a patient?
Yes, children are welcome to visit patients. Please note that only Patient's own children (or siblings in the case of a child) are permitted to visit.
Can I bring flowers?
Yes, you are welcome to bring flowers.
